Fulfil vs. Fulfill – Which is Correct?
The words fulfil and fulfill are often confused due to their similar meanings and usage. However, the key distinction lies in the spelling, with fulfill being the correct spelling in American English, while fulfil is the British English variant. This article will explore their usage, forms, synonyms, and provide examples to ensure clarity in their application.
Fulfil or Fulfill – Which is Correct?
The correct spelling for American English is fulfill. The British English variant is fulfil. While both terms have the same meaning—namely to complete or to reach a desired goal—context primarily determines which version is appropriate to use.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fulfill | Use in American English | She hopes to fulfill her dream of traveling the world. |
| Fulfil | Use in British English | He was able to fulfil his obligations to the charity. |
How to Use Fulfill
To use the word fulfill correctly, it is typically employed as a verb to denote the completion of a task, promise, or requirement. Examples include achieving goals or satisfying a condition.
Example 1: The team worked hard to fulfill their client’s expectations.
Example 2: He promised to fulfill his duties as a leader.
Example 3: It took years for her to fulfill her ambition of becoming a doctor.
What are the different forms of Fulfill?
“Fulfill” is a regular verb and its different tenses are formed using standard rules. The base form is “to fulfill.” The present tense variations include “I fulfill,” “you fulfill,” “he/she/it fulfills,” etc. The past tense is “I fulfilled,” “you fulfilled,” and “he/she/it fulfilled.” The future tense is constructed as “I will fulfill,” “you will fulfill,” and “he/she/it will fulfill.” The present participle form is “fulfilling,” and the past participle form is “fulfilled.”
Etymology of the word Fulfill
The word fulfill originates from the Old English term fullfyllan, which means to fill up or to complete. It combines the prefix full and the verb fyllan, meaning to fill.
How to Use Fulfil
Using the word fulfil follows the same principles as its American counterpart, albeit in British English context.
Example 1: The organization aims to fulfil its commitment to sustainability.
Example 2: He worked to fulfil the needs of the community.
Example 3: They managed to fulfil all the requirements set by the school.
What are the different forms of Fulfil?
Etymology of the word Fulfil
The term fulfil also traces back to the Old English fullfyllan, similar to “fulfill,” indicating the act of completing or filling to capacity.
Conclusion
Both fulfill and fulfil share the same meaning, yet are distinguished by their spelling in American and British English. Understanding their usage context will enable effective communication in both language forms.
