Fulfil vs. Fulfill — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 24, 2024
"Fulfil" and "fulfill" are spelling variants of the same word, with "fulfil" preferred in British English and "fulfill" in American English.
Difference Between Fulfil and Fulfill
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Fulfil is the spelling commonly used in British English, reflecting the general preference for single consonants in certain words in UK style guides. Whereas fulfill is the standard in American English, which often doubles the final consonant before a suffix.
Fulfil appears in various English-speaking countries outside the United States, such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, aligning with other British English spellings. On the other hand, fulfill is predominant in American publications and is considered the correct form in the US.
Fulfil and fulfill both mean to complete a task, satisfy a requirement, or achieve something desired. The choice of spelling does not affect the meaning or use of the word in sentences.
Fulfil might be encountered in international communications and global businesses that adhere to British English conventions. Whereas fulfill is expected in American-centric texts, including websites, academic papers, and legal documents based in the US.
Fulfil is sometimes seen in historical texts or older publications even in the US, reflecting earlier spelling conventions. On the other hand, fulfill has been standardized in American English spelling reforms and is reinforced by modern spell-check and educational systems.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
Preferred in British English
Preferred in American English
Usage
UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand
United States
Meaning
To complete or achieve something
To complete or achieve something
Educational Influence
Taught in British English curricula
Taught in American English curricula
Text Examples
Used in international English exams
Used in US standardized testing
Compare with Definitions
Fulfil
To realize or achieve a dream or goal.
Winning the championship was the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.
Fulfill
To carry out a task or agreement.
The company strives to fulfill its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Fulfil
To complete a duty or a promised task.
She aims to fulfil her promise to volunteer more.
Fulfill
To satisfy a qualification or prerequisite.
He fulfilled the prerequisites for enrolling in the advanced course.
Fulfil
To satisfy a condition or answer a need.
This course fulfils the requirement for graduation.
Fulfill
To meet an expectation, need, or desire.
The program is designed to fulfill the needs of working professionals.
Fulfil
To meet a requirement or standard.
The new software fulfils all our needs for data security.
Fulfill
To achieve an ambition or desire.
She fulfilled her ambition to become a doctor.
Fulfil
To bring to completion or reality.
He fulfilled his duty as a juror with integrity.
Fulfill
To bring to a conclusion or end.
The project was successfully fulfilled under her leadership.
Fulfil
To bring into actuality; effect or make real
Fulfilled their promises.
Fulfilled her dream.
Fulfill
To bring into actuality; effect or make real
Fulfilled their promises.
Fulfilled her dream.
Fulfil
To do, perform, or obey (a task or order, for example); carry out.
Fulfill
To do, perform, or obey (a task or order, for example); carry out.
Fulfil
To meet (a requirement or condition); satisfy.
Fulfill
To meet (a requirement or condition); satisfy.
Fulfil
Standard spelling of fulfill
Fulfill
To satisfy, carry out, bring to completion (an obligation, a requirement, etc.).
You made a promise, son, and now you must fulfill it.
Fulfil
Put in effect;
Carry out a task
Execute the decision of the people
He actioned the operation
Fulfill
To emotionally or artistically satisfy; to develop one's gifts to the fullest.
This is the most fulfilling work I've ever done.
Fulfil
Fill or meet a want or need
Fulfill
To obey, follow, comply with (a rule, requirement etc.).
Unfortunately, you don't fulfill the criteria for extra grants at the present time.
Fulfil
Fulfil the requirements or expectations of
Fulfill
(business) To package, distribute, or ship goods.
Fulfill
(archaic) To fill full; fill to the utmost capacity; fill up.
My lady is positively fulfilled of grace.
Fulfill
To fill up; to make full or complete.
Suffer thou that the children be fulfilled first, for it is not good to take the bread of children and give to hounds.
Fulfill
To accomplish or carry into effect, as an intention, promise, or prophecy, a desire, prayer, or requirement, etc.; to complete by performance; to answer the requisitions of; to bring to pass, as a purpose or design; to effectuate.
He will, fulfill the desire of them fear him.
Here Nature seems fulfilled in all her ends.
Servants must their masters' minds fulfill.
Fulfill
Put in effect;
Carry out a task
Execute the decision of the people
He actioned the operation
Fulfill
Fulfil the requirements or expectations of
Fulfill
Fill or meet a want or need
Common Curiosities
Which spelling should I use in an international context?
"Fulfil" is often preferred in international English outside the US, but "fulfill" may be more widely recognized due to American media influence.
Can fulfil and fulfill be used interchangeably in writing?
They can be used interchangeably based on the regional audience or publication standards.
What is the difference between fulfil and fulfill?
The main difference is regional spelling; "fulfil" is British English, while "fulfill" is American English.
Why does American English prefer "fulfill"?
American English often doubles the final consonant before a suffix, a pattern seen in other words like "traveling" (travelling in British English).
Do UK writers ever use "fulfill"?
It's uncommon, but not incorrect; usage might reflect exposure to American English or specific style guides.
What should I consider when choosing between fulfil and fulfill?
Consider your audience and the standard spelling practices of the country where your text will be read.
Are there any differences in meaning between fulfil and fulfill?
No, both spellings have the same meanings and uses.
Is there any difference in pronunciation between fulfil and fulfill?
No, both variants are pronounced the same.
How has the spelling of fulfil/fulfill evolved over time?
Spelling preferences have evolved based on regional practices, with American English standardizing on "fulfill" relatively recently.
Is there a preferred spelling in academic writing?
Yes, use "fulfill" in American English academic contexts and "fulfil" for British English academic writings.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
