What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obligate
Example
As a doctor, I am obligated to maintain patient confidentiality. [obligated: verb]
Example
The contract obligates the company to deliver the goods on time. [obligates: verb]
constrain
Example
The budget constraints prevented us from hiring more staff. [constraints: noun]
Example
The tight deadline constrained our ability to produce high-quality work. [constrained: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Constrain is more commonly used than obligate in everyday language. Constrain is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while obligate is less common and often used in legal or professional contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between obligate and constrain?
Both obligate and constrain can be used in formal or professional contexts. However, obligate may be perceived as more formal due to its association with legal or moral obligations.
