Obliging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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obliging

[əˈblaɪdʒɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

being helpful

Willing to do a service or favor; helpful; accommodating.

Synonyms

accommodating, cooperative, helpful, kind, willing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obliging	Used when describing someone who is ready and willing to help others; often implies a natural inclination to be helpful and cooperative. The obliging waiter quickly fetched us extra napkins. She is always obliging whenever someone calls for assistance.
helpful	A general term used when someone provides assistance or useful information. This word lacks the specific connotations of flexibility or teamwork. The librarian was very helpful in finding the books I needed. His comments were very helpful in improving my report.
accommodating	Best chosen when referring to someone who is flexible and willing to adjust their actions or decisions to help others. Often used in situations involving negotiation or compromise. Our accommodating host changed the dinner time to suit our schedule. The hotel staff were very accommodating and gave us a late check-out time.
willing	Describes someone who is eager or ready to do something. It focuses on the person's readiness or enthusiasm to help, rather than their effectiveness or manner. She's always willing to lend a hand with the chores. He's willing to tutor students after school.
kind	Used to describe someone who is gentle, considerate, and caring towards others. Often implies emotional support and a warm-hearted nature. The kind nurse comforted the crying child. It's kind of you to bring food for the party.
cooperative	Appropriate in contexts that require teamwork and mutual effort. Used to describe someone who works well with others towards a common goal. The team's cooperative spirit helped complete the project ahead of schedule. She was very cooperative during the investigation.

Examples of usage

She was always obliging and ready to lend a hand.
He was so obliging that everyone wanted to be his friend.
The staff at the hotel were extremely obliging and attentive to our needs.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

complying with a request

To do as someone asks or desires in order to help or please them.

Synonyms

accommodate, comply, fulfill, heed, satisfy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
obliging	Used to describe a person who is willing to help or do favors. She is very obliging; she helped me carry my groceries
comply	Used when following rules, instructions, or fulfilling requests, often formal or required actions. Employees must comply with the company's safety policies
fulfill	Used to describe completing a promise, desire, requirement, or obligation. He worked hard to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor
satisfy	Used when meeting expectations or desires, often in the context of requirements, needs, or desires. The solution satisfies our project's requirements
accommodate	Used when making arrangements to meet someone's needs or preferences. Often in the context of adjusting plans or providing amenities. We can accommodate dietary restrictions; just let us know in advance
heed	Used when paying close attention or taking notice, typically in a warning or advice context. Often implies seriousness. You should heed the weather warnings before going hiking

Examples of usage

He obliged by opening the door for her.
She obliged him with a cup of tea.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'obliging'

The word 'obliging' originates from the Middle English 'obligen', which comes from the Old French 'obliger', meaning 'to bind'. The sense of 'doing a service or favor' emerged in the 17th century, reflecting the idea of being bound by duty or willing to help others.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,207, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
16204 enlighten
16205 possessive
16206 falsity
16207 obliging
16208 unhappily
16209 consort
16210 rudely
...