How to say "fulfill" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 満たすみたすgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'fulfill' in the sense of satisfying conditions, requirements, demands, or needs and appetites — filling something so it is no longer lacking. Typical when meeting criteria or satisfying a desire.
- 全うするまっとうするexpression, suru verb, transitive verbFor 'fulfill' as in carrying out a duty, obligation, or responsibility fully and properly, seeing it through to the end rather than leaving it half-done.
- 果たすはたすgodan verb, transitive verbCovers 'fulfill' as in accomplishing or achieving something — bringing a goal, role, mission, or promise to completion. Focuses on the result being attained.
- 叶えるかなえるichidan verb, transitive verbFor 'fulfill' in the sense of making a wish, dream, or hope come true — granting what someone longs for. Use when a desire is realized, as with granted requests or answered prayers.
- godan verb, intransitive verbSeldom the word you want for 'fulfill': it really means a rule, standard, or description applies or holds true. Use it when conditions fit or are applicable, not when someone fulfills them.
Use 「満たす」 for satisfying conditions or needs, 「全うする」 and 「果たす」 for carrying duties and goals through to completion, 「叶える」 for making wishes or dreams come true; 「あてはまる」 is for conditions that apply, not for fulfilling them.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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