Obligatory
əˈblɪɡətɔːri
Definitions
Required as a matter of law or other requirement; binding.
əˈblɪɡətɔːri
Required by a legal, moral, or other rule.
Attendance at the meeting was obligatory for all staff members.
💡 Simply: Think of something you *have* to do, like brushing your teeth or going to school. It's something you're required to do, like it's part of the rules! For example, showing your ID at the airport is obligatory.
👶 For kids: Something that you *have* to do. Like, it's the rule! Like, it's obligatory to say 'thank you' when someone gives you something.
More Examples
The wearing of seatbelts in cars is obligatory by law.
Paying taxes is an obligatory civic duty.
How It's Used
"It is obligatory for all citizens to pay taxes."
"Sending a thank-you note is often considered obligatory after receiving a gift."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Obligatory photo
A photo that is expected or required to be taken, often for social media or documentation.
"We took an obligatory photo in front of the Eiffel Tower."
From Latin *obligatorius* meaning 'binding, compulsory', from *obligare* ('to bind').
The word 'obligatory' has been used since the 16th century to denote something that is binding or compulsory.
Memory tip
Think of a situation where you are *obliged* to do something, like wearing a seatbelt. It's *obligatory* by law.
Word Origin
"binding, compulsory"