Accomplishment

An accomplishment is the completion of a task or the attainment of a goal, especially one that required effort, skill, or persistence. It can refer to a single notable deed or to the successful finishing of a longer process. In common usage, an accomplishment highlights both the outcome and the effort involved, and it may carry a sense of merit or significance beyond routine tasks. The noun is derived from the verb accomplish, through the suffix -ment, with roots in Old French and Middle English.

The term is widely used in education, the workplace, and personal life. In resumes and biographical notes, people list accomplishments to illustrate capabilities, progress, and impact. In everyday language, examples include completing a degree, finishing a project, or mastering a new skill. It is related but not identical to achievement: an accomplishment emphasizes the act of completing or delivering, whereas achievement emphasizes reaching a worthwhile end or earning recognition.

Accomplishments can be subjective and contextual, varying by standards, culture, and goals. They can be milestones within a larger program, or discrete feats that stand alone. Examples include publishing a research paper, running a marathon, launching a product, repairing a piece of equipment, or learning a language.

See also: achievement, attainment, feat, milestone, success, competency.