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.

The commissioners demanded more transparency from developers about their operations and required them to comply with the county’s new development regulations before they would vote.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

Its batteries are in demand with energy-storage plants because they comply with subsidy rules that favor domestic manufacturing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

But Sheinbaum has instead closed ranks, insisting her government will not comply with the U.S. request that it extradite Rocha Moya.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

The judge said the government's claim they would comply with the order "as soon as possible" showed a "lack of respect" to the commissioner's role.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

“Every single person on this street is subject to a mandatory search, by high order of the Kuhani. Failure to comply may result in fines and imprisonment. Make a neat and orderly line.”

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray

Vocabulary lists containing comply

ASVAB Word Knowledge

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The Hate U Give

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"The Ransom of Red Chief" by O. Henry

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