Spanish word

cumplir

Pronunciation

IPA/kumˈpliɾ/

Meaning

  • verbkeep

Example

Siempre cumplo lo que prometo.

I always keep what I promise.

Illustration for cumplir (keep)

More examples

Tenemos que cumplir el plazo para entregar el proyecto.

We have to meet the deadline to submit the project.

Core concept

Satisfying a rule, duty, or promise in practice.

Common phrases

  • cumplir con su palabra

    keep one's word

  • cumplir el plazo

    meet the deadline

Similar words

hacer: Performs actions to finish a job, errand, or simple task.
realizar: Carries out a planned task or project through the necessary steps to completion.
respetar: Observes and honors rules, agreements, or social norms in practice.
obedecer: Acts according to orders or instructions given by an authority.

Definition in Spanish

Hacer efectivo lo prometido o exigido por una norma u obligación; también expresar que se llega a una edad concreta.

Word origin

From Latin complēre (con- 'together' + plēre 'fill'), originally 'fill completely', which gave the sense 'bring to completion' now used for fulfilling obligations or attaining an age.

Usage tips

  • To say 'keep a promise' in Spanish use cumplir una promesa rather than a literal 'keep', and to express 'comply with' use cumplir con followed by the rule or requirement.

Other meanings

  • comply withverb
  • carry outverb
  • satisfyverb
  • fulfillverb
  • turnverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word