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Meaning trap

carry out

perform a task

to do or complete a task, plan, order, or activity, especially as part of your job or responsibilities.

phrasal verbB1common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

perform a task

to do or complete a task, plan, order, or activity, especially as part of your job or responsibilities.

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Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • The scientists will carry out more tests before making a decision.work
  • In my previous job, I had to carry out regular safety checks to make sure everything was working properly.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: carry out [noun]

WrongWe carried on the experiment.

RightWe carried out the experiment.

'Carry out' = perform/complete; 'carry on' = continue. Easy to confuse.

Patterncarry out [noun]

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The team executed the procedure as specified.

Natural The team carried out the procedure.

'Carry out' is the everyday verb for performing a task/plan; 'executed the procedure as specified' is technical/formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • carry out + task
    a studyresearchan orderrepairs

Don't confuse it

'Carry out' is more formal than just 'do,' and is often used for official or important tasks.

Try it in Daily Speak →