What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oblige
Example
I would be happy to oblige you by lending you some money. [oblige: verb]
Example
As a doctor, I am obliged to maintain patient confidentiality. [obliged: past participle]
require
Example
This job requires a lot of attention to detail. [requires: verb]
Example
The school requires all students to wear uniforms. [requires: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Require is more commonly used than oblige in everyday language. Require is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oblige is less common and refers to a voluntary or optional action.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between oblige and require?
Oblige is typically associated with a more formal tone, while require is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
