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Definitions

comply

[kuhm-plahy] / kəmˈplaɪ /
VERB
abide by, follow agreement or instructions
Synonyms
STRONGEST
acquiesce adhere to give in give up obey observe quit satisfy submit
STRONG
accede accord defer discharge ditto fold fulfill keep mind perform respect yield
WEAK
agree to cave in come around conform to consent to cry uncle don't make waves don't rock the boat fit in give out go along with go with the flow knuckle to knuckle under play ball play the game put out roll over and play dead shape up stay in line straighten up throw in towel toss it in yes one
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disobey dissuade
STRONG
condemn deny disallow disapprove fail ignore neglect oppose prevent refuse withhold
WEAK
decline rebuff reject resist

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There are further legal questions regarding whether the states could even comply with the DOJ’s proposed 45-day deadline for removing declared ineligible voters.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

Never mind that children seldom have meaningful choice but to comply with caregivers’ demands and may be in therapy not to pursue their goals but due to external pressures.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

The other candidates agreed; Villaraigosa pledged to ensure federal detention centers comply with all health and safety rules.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Indonesia began enforcing a social media ban for users under the age of 16 on Saturday, and has already issued summons letters to Google and Meta over their failure to comply with the law.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

I don’t want another present or future Granger student to feel they have to comply with the status quo when they don’t feel comfortable doing so.”

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.