Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for comply. Search instead for compl.
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 justices also directed the law enforcement agency to comply with the watchdog’s requests for records.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

There were also issues before the World Athletics Championships when a group of Canadian athletes had to be retested after a reported 'test-tube error' meant their cheek swabs failed to comply with requirements.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

So rare is it to encounter a young man willing to put aside his ego when in need of help, your spirits actually lift a bit as you push the button to comply.

From "Odd One Out" by Nic Stone

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