achever

The French verb "achever" means "to finish," "to complete," or "to accomplish" something. It is used when talking about bringing an action, task, or process to its end.

Meanings and usages:

• To finish something (a task, work, or project):
  Il achève son travail. – He is finishing his work.
• To bring something to completion (results, construction, etc.):
  Le bâtiment a été achevé en 2020. – The building was completed in 2020.
• Literally, to put an end to (sometimes to kill or finish off):
  Le soldat a été achevé après la bataille. – The soldier was finished off after the battle.

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Synonyms and differences:

• Terminer:
  The most general verb for "to finish" or "to end." Similar in meaning but less formal and less precise than "achever."
  J’ai terminé mes devoirs. (I finished my homework.)
  "Achever" often emphasizes completeness or the final stage of something.

• Finir:
  Common and neutral verb meaning "to finish." Used widely in all contexts.
  Je finis mon repas. – I am finishing my meal.
  "Achever" tends to suggest a more deliberate or formal completion.

• Compléter:
  Means "to complete" in terms of adding parts to make something whole.
  Il a complété le formulaire. – He completed the form.
  "Achever" is more about reaching the end point, while "compléter" refers to making something whole.

In summary, "achever" is more formal or emphatic than "finir" and "terminer," and implies the action of bringing something fully to its end or completion.