comply
kuhm-PLY
/kəmˈplaɪ/
To act in accordance with a wish, command, rule, or instruction.
Implies meeting external rules, standards, or demands, often neutral or administrative rather than emotional.
The story behind the word. From Italian compiere (to fill up, fulfill), from Latin complere (to fill up). It originally meant to fill up or fulfill a promise or duty.
Word relationships
- obey: Obey is personal and direct, while comply is often about rules, standards, or regulations.
- rebel: Rebel is to actively fight authority, while comply is to follow instructions.
Commonly confused with
- conform: Conform is to match social norms, while comply is to meet specific rules.
Word family
- compliance (noun): The state or fact of according with or meeting rules.
- compliant (adjective): Disposed to agree with others or obey rules.
Collocations
- comply with regulations
- fail to comply
- comply fully
Example sentences
- "The company must comply with all environmental regulations." A standard regulatory requirement in business.
Memory hook
When you comply, you complete the requirements or ply yourself to the rules. Comply = Fill up the requirements.
When not to use
Do not use when describing deep personal submission or emotional surrender.
Fun facts
- Comply is etymologically related to complete and compliment, all sharing the idea of filling up.
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