Obligation: meaning, definitions and examples

When referring to a requirement or expectation imposed by law, rule, contract, or agreement.

• He has an obligation to pay back the loan
• As a citizen, you have an obligation to follow the laws

When highlighting a moral, legal, or official responsibility that one is expected to fulfill.

• It's your duty to report any suspicious activity
• The soldier felt it was his duty to serve his country

When talking about being in charge of something or someone, implying a sense of accountability.

• Taking care of the dog is his responsibility
• She has the responsibility to manage the team

When discussing a promise or firm decision to do something, often emotional or voluntary in nature.

• She made a commitment to improve her skills
• Marriage requires deep commitment from both partners

Typically used in formal or legal contexts where there is a duty or promise that someone must fulfill.

• He has an obligation to support his family
• The company has an obligation to pay its taxes on time

Often used to describe a necessary condition or criteria that must be met, especially in formal or official contexts, such as job applications or regulations.

• A degree is a requirement for this job
• Meeting these safety requirements is essential for the certification

Often used in situations where someone feels forced to do something, either due to internal or external pressures, and usually carries a negative connotation.

• She felt a compulsion to check her phone every few minutes
• His compulsion to clean everything made it difficult for him to relax

Used to describe limitations or restrictions that prevent someone from acting freely, often used in project management, planning, and similar areas.

• The budget constraints affected our ability to hire more staff
• Time constraints required us to complete the project quickly

Formal or legal requirements that compel someone to perform a specific action. Usually used in official, legal, or formal contexts.

• She has an obligation to pay her rent on time.
• Employees have an obligation to follow company policies.

A personal promise or dedication to something or someone, often long-term and requiring emotional investment.

• He made a commitment to improve his fitness.
• Their commitment to the project was evident in their hard work.

The state or fact of having a duty to deal with something or someone. This word is often used in more general contexts compared to 'duty' and can apply to various roles and tasks.

• Parents have a responsibility to take care of their children.
• He accepted the responsibility for the mistake.

A moral or professional obligation to perform certain tasks or conduct oneself in a certain way. This term often implies a sense of honor or ethical responsibility.

• It is the duty of a doctor to care for their patients.
• He felt it was his duty to stand by his family.