Obligations: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when talking about formal or legal requirements. It often carries a sense of compulsion or necessity.

• He has financial obligations to his family and cannot walk away from them.
• Under the contract, she has certain obligations she must fulfill.

Refers to tasks or responsibilities that are part of one's job or role. It implies a sense of moral or ethical responsibility.

• As a doctor, her primary duty is to care for her patients.
• His duties include filing reports and attending meetings.

This word is used more broadly, for general tasks or roles that one is expected to handle. It implies accountability and trust.

• Being a parent comes with many responsibilities.
• He accepted the responsibility for the project's success.

Used when referring to promises or pledges that are voluntarily made. It suggests a personal or emotional investment in fulfilling the promise.

• She has several commitments over the weekend, including a charity event and a family gathering.
• His commitment to his job keeps him very busy.

Use 'obligations' when talking about legal or moral duties, or something that one is bound to do because of a rule, law, or expectation.

• As a citizen, you have obligations to vote and follow the law.
• His obligations under the contract were quite demanding.

Use 'duties' when talking about tasks or actions that are required to be performed, often because of one's job or social position.

• A teacher's duties include preparing lesson plans and grading tests.
• Police officers have a duty to protect and serve the community.

Use 'responsibilities' to refer to tasks, roles, or duties that someone is accountable for, often emphasizing the aspect of managing or taking care of something or someone.

• As a manager, she has many responsibilities, including overseeing the team's work.
• Parents have the responsibility to take care of their children.

Use 'commitments' when referring to something one has promised or agreed to do, often involving personal or professional engagement.

• She couldn't attend the meeting because of prior commitments.
• Being in a relationship requires several commitments from both partners.

Used to describe responsibilities or duties that one is bound to fulfill, often by law or contract.

• He has parental obligations to his children
• Fulfilling your obligations at work is crucial for maintaining good relationships with your employer

Used when referring to money that is owed to another party, typically financial in nature. Common in both personal and business contexts.

• She has a lot of credit card debts to pay off
• The company is struggling to manage its debts

Used primarily in financial and accounting contexts to refer to amounts owed by a person or company. Can also mean legal responsibilities.

• The accountant reviewed the company's liabilities before preparing the balance sheet
• He is concerned about his legal liabilities if the project fails

Formal or technical term often used in legal or financial contexts to describe the state of owing money. It can also imply a sense of gratitude or moral obligation.

• The firm's overall indebtedness has increased this quarter
• She expressed her deep indebtedness to her mentor for all the support