Duty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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duty
[ˈdjuːti ]
Definitions
legal obligation
A moral or legal obligation; a responsibility. Duties may be imposed by law, by one's conscience, or by custom. Fulfilling one's duties is often seen as honorable and necessary for a functioning society.
Synonyms
chore, obligation, responsibility, task.
Examples of usage
- He felt it was his duty to help his elderly neighbor.
- She performed her duties as a nurse with dedication and compassion.
job or task
A task or job that one is required to perform. Duties can vary in nature and scope, ranging from simple everyday chores to complex professional responsibilities.
Synonyms
assignment, function, mission, role.
Examples of usage
- It is my duty to make sure the project is completed on time.
- Her duties as a teacher include lesson planning, grading, and student evaluation.
tax or fee
A tax or fee imposed by the government on goods, services, or activities. Duties are often used to regulate trade and generate revenue for the government.
Examples of usage
- The duty on imported cars has been increased to protect the domestic industry.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Kant, a famous philosopher, argued that duties are driven by moral law, highlighting the importance of doing the right thing regardless of personal desires.
- The concept of duty is essential in many ethical theories, serving as a pillar for theories like deontology that focus on rule-based actions.
- Many cultures emphasize duty as a vital part of relationships, such as family and community, reinforcing collective responsibility.
Pop Culture
- Movies often showcase duty as a central theme, such as in superhero stories where characters feel compelled to protect others.
- In popular video games, characters often have 'duties' they must fulfill, reflecting the player's commitment to their mission and goals.
- Songs sometimes focus on the struggle between duty and personal desires, resonating with listeners who face similar conflicts.
Education
- Schools teach the importance of duty through responsibilities like homework, which helps students learn accountability.
- In many educational philosophies, nurturing a sense of duty is seen as key to developing character and leadership skills.
- Service-learning programs encourage students to engage in community duties, fostering a sense of obligation to contribute positively.
Psychology
- Research shows that feeling a sense of duty can motivate individuals to take action, even against their personal interests.
- The concept of duty can impact mental health; excessive feelings of obligation may lead to stress and burnout.
- Understanding one's sense of duty can aid in personal development, allowing individuals to align their actions with their values.
Origin of 'duty'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'debere', meaning 'to owe', showing a sense of obligation.
- In Middle English, 'duty' was used to describe a person's moral obligations, linking responsibility to social customs.
- The concept of duty has evolved through centuries, from ancient Greece's idea of civic duty to modern interpretations in ethics.
The word 'duty' originated from the Middle English word 'dute', which came from the Anglo-French 'deuete' and ultimately from the Latin word 'debitus', meaning 'something owed'. The concept of duty has been integral to moral and legal systems throughout history, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's obligations and responsibilities.