Implement
/ˈɪmpləmənt/
nounverbB2
Definition
"Implement" as a noun is a tool or object that helps you do a task, like a hammer or a pen. As a verb, it means to start using a plan, rule, or idea in real life. When you implement something, you take steps to make it work or happen.
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See It in Action
Noun: A tool or device used to do work
- •The gardener used several implements to plant flowers.
- •Kitchen implements like knives and spoons are important for cooking.
- •Farmers often use heavy implements like plows to prepare the field.
Verb: To put a plan, decision, or law into action
- •The government will implement new rules next month.
- •The company implemented a new system to improve customer service.
- •Teachers implemented a new schedule to help students learn better.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "implement" like "tool" (A1 word) when it is a noun, but it can be any object used for work, not just a simple tool.
- ✓Picture a farmer using a shovel or a computer user clicking a button to start a program—these are implements helping complete work.
- ✓It's the feeling when you finally start doing a plan you thought about for a long time.
- ✓Sounds like "im-PLUH-ment" → imagine "I'm planting" seeds, which need tools and action to grow—both tools and action relate to implement.
- ✓Think of a chef using a knife (implement) to prepare food or a manager telling workers to implement a new rule.
- ✓NOT like "idea" (just a thought) — implement means doing or using something, not just thinking about it.
- ✓NOT like "tool" only — as a verb, it means to act, not just an object.
- ✓NOT like "plan" — a plan is the idea, implement is making the idea real.
Try Other Words
- •Tool: a device used to do a job (Use when talking only about physical objects)
- •Carry out: to do or complete a plan or task (Use when focusing on action rather than objects)
- •Execute: to perform or put into effect (Use in formal contexts about actions or plans)
- •Apply: to use a method or idea (Use when focusing on using something in practice)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "im-" (a form of "in" meaning into) + "ple" (from Latin "plere" meaning to fill) + "-ment" (a suffix that turns verbs into nouns or shows the result of an action)
- •Etymology: From Latin "implementum," meaning a filling up or tool
- •Historical development: First used in English in the 15th century to mean a tool or instrument; later, the verb form developed to mean putting plans into action
- •Modern usage: Commonly used both as a noun for tools and as a verb for carrying out plans, rules, or methods
Reflect & Connect
•How does the meaning of "implement" change when used as a noun versus a verb in your daily life?
•Can you think of a time when you had to implement a plan or idea? What tools (implements) did you need to help you?
Fill in the blanks
1.To improve the garden, the workers used several ___ ___ like shovels and rakes to prepare the soil.
2.The manager decided to ___ the new safety rules after the meeting ___.
3.When you ___ a plan, you must carefully check if everything is working as ___.
4.In the kitchen, many ___ ___ help cooks prepare meals quickly and safely.
5.The school will ___ a new timetable next semester to help students learn better ___.
6.Farmers use heavy ___ ___ to plant and harvest crops, which make their work easier ___.
7.Before you ___ a change in your company, it's important to explain the reasons to all ___ involved.