履行する

• Reading: りこうする
• Romaji: rikō suru
• Kanji breakdown: 履 (ri) — to step on, carry out, footwear; 行 (kō) — to go, do, carry out
• Pronunciation: /ɾi.koː.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To fulfil; to carry out; to perform a duty or obligation. Refers to completing what was promised or required.

A する verb (Group 3). Formal legal and contractual term. Used for fulfilling obligations — contracts, promises, duties, agreements. Implies a binding commitment that must be honoured. Common collocations: 契約を履行する (to fulfil a contract), 義務を履行する (to carry out a duty).

Examples

1. 契約の条件をすべて履行しなければ、訴えられる。 If you fail to fulfill all the terms of the contract, you can be sued.
2. 国際的な約束を履行する責任がある。 There is a responsibility to fulfill international commitments.
3. 彼は自分の義務を忠実に履行した。 He faithfully carried out his obligations.

Usage Guide

Context: law, contracts, obligations

Tone: authoritative

Origin & History

From Chinese 履行. 履 means 'to step on/carry out' (also: footwear) and 行 means 'to do/go.' Together: to step through and complete an obligation.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional