Obligations
ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃənz
Definitions
2 meaningsA duty or commitment that someone is bound to fulfill.
ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən
A duty or commitment.
We have an obligation to help those in need.
💡 Simply: Obligations are like promises or responsibilities. If you make a promise, you have an obligation to keep it. Like, if you promise to walk your neighbor's dog, you have an obligation to do it, even if it's raining!
👶 For kids: An obligation is something you HAVE to do, like brushing your teeth or helping your mom.
More Examples
He fulfilled his obligations to his employer.
The company's obligations include paying its employees and suppliers.
She felt a strong obligation to care for her aging parents.
How It's Used
"Companies have legal obligations to protect their employees."
"Family obligations often require attending important events."
A moral or legal requirement to do something.
ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən
An act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound.
He had an obligation to tell the truth.
💡 Simply: Think of it like having a 'must-do' list. Obligations are things you *have* to do, whether you want to or not, because you promised or it's part of your job! Like paying for the food after you eat at a restaurant.
👶 For kids: An obligation is something you should do, like saying please and thank you.
More Examples
The company met its financial obligations.
I have an obligation to report the crime.
How It's Used
"She felt no moral obligation to reveal her friend's secret."
"Fulfilling their financial obligations is a priority for the company."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
under an obligation
Bound by duty, contract, or sense of gratitude.
"I felt under an obligation to help her."
From Latin *obligatio* ("a binding, obligation"), from *obligare* ("to bind to, oblige").
The word's use has remained fairly consistent over time, reflecting its role in legal, social, and personal spheres, with frequent appearance in writings about ethics, law, and social responsibilities.
Memory tip
Think of it like having a "bill" you need to "fill," a duty you must fulfill.