Be Obliged To Be Obliged To

If you are obliged by a rule or law you are metaphorically bound by it—that is, you are required to obey it. The idea of binding links the word to its Latin source, ligāre, meaning “to fasten, bind.”

OBLIGED definition: bound by duty, ethics, or politeness. See examples of obliged used in a sentence.

Doctors are legally obliged to take certain precautions. She feels obligated to be nice to Jack because he's her boss.

To compel or require (someone) to do something, as by circumstance or legality: When the power went out, we were obliged to fetch water with a bucket. The contract obliges you to meet the …

The government is obliged [= required, obligated] by law to release certain documents to the public. She's always ready to oblige her friends. “Thank you for your help.” “I'm happy/glad to …

If you are obliged to do something, a situation, rule, or law makes it necessary for you to do that thing. My family needed the money so I was obliged to work.

Dec 19, 2025 · obliged (comparative more obliged, superlative most obliged) Under an obligation to do something. All employees are obliged to complete a tax return every year. Grateful or …

Definition of obliged adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Obliged typically refers to a moral or legal obligation or responsibility. If you're being followed by an ambulance with its siren on, you are obliged to pull to the side of the road and let it pass.

to place under a debt of gratitude for some benefit, favor, or service: I'm much obliged for the ride. to put (one) in a debt of gratitude, as by a favor or accommodation: Mr. Weems will oblige us …