Obligation
ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən
Definitions
2 meaningsA legal or moral requirement to do something; a duty or commitment.
ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən
A duty or commitment
I have an obligation to tell the truth.
💡 Simply: An obligation is something you HAVE to do, whether it's a promise, a rule, or just because it's the right thing to do. Think of it as a promise or a 'must-do' task.
👶 For kids: An obligation is like a promise or a rule that you HAVE to do, like brushing your teeth or helping your friend.
More Examples
Parents have an obligation to care for their children.
The company fulfilled its financial obligations.
How It's Used
"The contract outlines the obligations of both parties."
"It's my obligation to help my family."
The condition of being bound to a course of action.
ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən
An act of binding oneself to a course of action
The company fulfilled its financial obligation.
💡 Simply: Imagine you agree to pay for something. That agreement becomes an obligation. It’s a commitment, especially when money is involved.
👶 For kids: If you promise to pay someone for something or do something for someone, you have an obligation!
More Examples
Entering the agreement created a new obligation for all parties.
How It's Used
"The firm took on a significant financial obligation."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
under obligation
To be legally or morally bound to do something.
"She felt under obligation to support her family."
moral obligation
A duty based on principles of right and wrong, not necessarily law.
"He felt a moral obligation to help the needy."
financial obligation
A monetary duty.
"Paying taxes is a financial obligation."
From the Latin obligatio, meaning 'a binding', from obligare, 'to bind to' or 'bind to'.
The term has been used since the 14th century, referring to a binding agreement or duty.
Memory tip
Think of an 'ob-li-gation' as something that binds you, like a legal 'tie' or moral 'tug'.