implement

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitiveformal

   To put a plan, decision, rule, or system into practical effect so that it begins to operate.

   Grammar: Takes an object: implement the policy; do not say implement on the policy.

   Patterns

   • implement a plan
   • implement a policy
   • implement a decision
   • implement changes
   • implement a system

   The city will implement the new recycling plan in June.

   Managers must implement the decision fairly across all teams.

   Schools need time to implement the revised safety procedures.

2. 2nouncountableformal

   A tool or piece of equipment made for a particular task, especially in farming, cooking, or a skilled trade.

   Grammar: Countable and often plural: a garden implement; many farm implements.

   Patterns

   • farm implement
   • garden implement
   • kitchen implement
   • wooden implement

   The shed was full of rusty farm implements.

   She washed each kitchen implement and hung it to dry.

   Archaeologists found stone implements near the old campsite.

3. 3verbtransitivecomputingtechnical

   In computing, to write or provide the code that makes a feature, rule, or interface work.

   Grammar: Technical transitive use with a computing object: implement the interface, not implement with the interface.

   Patterns

   • implement an interface
   • implement a feature
   • implement a function
   • implement a protocol

   The team will implement the login feature before Friday.

   This class implements the payment interface.

   Can you implement a search filter without slowing the app?

Word forms

Common combinations

implement a plan

They promised to implement a plan for cleaner buses.

implement a policy

The company will implement a policy allowing flexible hours.

implement changes

The coach decided to implement changes after the first game.

implement effectively

A good idea can fail if leaders do not implement it effectively.

implement a decision

The board voted to implement the decision immediately.

implement a system

The hospital needs to implement a system for tracking supplies.

Synonyms and how they differ

carry out

Better for completing a task or duty; implement is stronger for starting a plan or system so it operates.

execute

More formal and precise, often used for orders, strategies, or legal documents; implement is broader in business and government.

enforce

Means making people obey a law or rule; implement means putting it into operation, not necessarily punishing violations.

apply

Use for putting a rule, method, or skill to a particular case; implement focuses on making a whole plan or system work.

Opposites

Word family

implementation noun

The process of putting a plan or system into effect.

implementer noun

A person or organization that carries out a plan.

implementable adjective

Possible to put into practice; less common than workable.

Commonly confused: implement or instrument?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “implement”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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