Definitions
- Referring to something that is required by law or regulation. - Talking about something that is mandatory or necessary, often with consequences for non-compliance. - Describing something that is obligatory or unavoidable.
- Referring to something that is required or expected as a duty or responsibility. - Talking about something that is necessary or essential, often due to social norms or customs. - Describing something that is mandatory or required by etiquette or tradition.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to something that is required or necessary.
- 2Both words can be used to describe mandatory actions or duties.
- 3Both words imply that there are consequences for not complying with the requirement.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Compulsory is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as legal or regulatory requirements, while obligatory is more commonly used in social or cultural contexts.
- 2Connotation: Compulsory has a stronger connotation of being forced or imposed, while obligatory has a stronger connotation of being a duty or responsibility.
Remember this!
Compulsory and obligatory are synonyms that both refer to something that is required or necessary. However, compulsory is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as legal or regulatory requirements, while obligatory is more commonly used in social or cultural contexts. Additionally, compulsory has a stronger connotation of being forced or imposed, while obligatory has a stronger connotation of being a duty or responsibility.