cumplir
“cumplir” means “fulfill” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
fulfill, carry out
Also: execute
📝 In Action
El presidente prometió cumplir sus promesas de campaña.
B1The president promised to fulfill his campaign promises.
Debemos cumplir con el contrato antes de fin de mes.
B2We must carry out the contract before the end of the month.
Si no cumples tu palabra, nadie te creerá.
B1If you don't keep your word, no one will believe you.
to turn (a certain age), to celebrate a birthday
📝 In Action
Mi hijo cumple diez años mañana.
A1My son turns ten years old tomorrow.
¿Cuándo cumples tú?
A1When is your birthday? (Literally: When do you turn [age]?)
Ella cumplió la mayoría de edad el mes pasado.
B1She came of age (turned 18) last month.
come true, be realized
Also: expire
📝 In Action
Su sueño de viajar por el mundo finalmente se cumplió.
B2His dream of traveling the world finally came true.
La profecía se cumplirá al pie de la letra.
C1The prophecy will be realized exactly as written.
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
🔀 Commonly Confused With
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "cumplir" in Spanish:
be realized→carry out→come true→execute→expire→fulfill→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cumplir
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'cumplir' to talk about age?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'cumplir' comes from the Latin verb *complere*, which meant 'to fill up' or 'to complete fully.' This origin explains why it is used for completing duties, fulfilling requirements, and completing another year of life.
First recorded: 13th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'cumplir' and 'terminar'?
'Terminar' simply means 'to finish' or 'to end' a task or process. 'Cumplir' means 'to fulfill' or 'to carry out' something completely, often implying a moral duty or legal requirement. You can 'terminar' a project, but you 'cumplir' a contract.
Does 'cumplir' always require 'con'?
No. When you are fulfilling a direct object (like a promise or a contract), you don't need 'con': 'Cumplí la promesa.' You usually use 'con' when you are complying *with* a rule or standard: 'Cumplí con las reglas.'