Obligate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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obligate
[ˈɒblɪɡeɪt ]
Definitions
legal obligation
To bind or compel legally or morally. To require or constrain someone to do something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| obligate |
This is often used in formal or legal settings to indicate a duty or commitment that must be fulfilled.
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| require |
Used to indicate a need or necessity, often in everyday or official contexts.
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| compel |
Used to express that someone is being driven or urged strongly to do something, often by force or pressure.
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| bind |
Used when something restricts someone's freedom or actions, often in a legal or formal context.
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| force |
Indicates making someone do something against their will, and often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The contract obligates both parties to fulfill their responsibilities.
- As a parent, you are obligated to provide for your children.
necessary action
Required by a legal, moral, or other rule; compulsory. Imposed as an obligation.
Synonyms
compulsory, mandatory, necessary, required.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| obligate |
Often used in formal or legal contexts where someone is legally or morally bound to do something. Can have a restrictive or negative connotation.
|
| required |
Widely used across various contexts including formal, legal, and casual. Indicates something that is specified or demanded by a rule, regulation, or need.
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| compulsory |
Applicable in situations where something is demanded by rules, laws, or regulations. It often implies that there is no choice, and not adhering to it may result in consequences.
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| mandatory |
Commonly used in official, legal, or institutional contexts. It indicates a requirement imposed by an authority, and usually emphasizes adherence and enforcement.
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| necessary |
Used in general contexts to indicate something that is needed or essential. It is less authoritative and more about practical importance or necessity.
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Examples of usage
- It is obligatory for all students to attend the orientation session.
- The training course is obligate for new employees.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- In ecology, 'obligate' often describes species that depend on a specific condition or environment to survive, such as obligate carnivores that can only eat meat.
- Certain parasites are termed obligate because they cannot complete their life cycle without a host organism.
Ethics
- In ethical discussions, obligations often arise from moral duties, suggesting that individuals are 'obligated' to act in certain ways based on social contracts.
- Various philosophical theories argue about what our obligations are to others, including concepts of fairness and justice.
Law
- In legal terms, to obligate someone can mean they are bound by a contract and must fulfill their commitments as defined by law.
- Obligations in law can lead to consequences if not met, emphasizing the importance of responsibility in agreements.
Cultural Practices
- Many cultures have rituals that obligate individuals to perform certain actions, such as giving gifts, honoring elders, or community service, to promote social harmony.
- In some traditions, individuals feel obligated to follow community expectations, which can shape behavior and identities.
Origin of 'obligate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'obligare', which means 'to bind or tie to'.
- In the 15th century, it began to be used in English to describe something that was mandatory or required.
The word 'obligate' originated from the Latin word 'obligatus', which means 'bound'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. The concept of obligation has been a fundamental aspect of human societies throughout history, with legal and moral obligations shaping social interactions and responsibilities.
See also: obligated, obligation, obligatory, obliged, obligee, obliging.