to make someone feel that they have to do something because it is their duty or because of a law or rule, to legally or morally require someone to do something

Formal and Informal Expressions of obligate

In different contexts, you can replace 'obligate' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'compel, require' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'force, make' is a commonplace synonym.

obligate: Explore its Definition & Usage

obligate Definition

1to make someone feel that they have to do something because it is their duty or because of a law or rule
2to legally or morally require someone to do something

Using obligate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "obligate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The company is obligated to provide safety training for its employees.
Example
The law obligates all citizens to pay taxes.
Example
I am obligated to attend the meeting.
Example
She felt obligated to help her friend in need.

obligate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for obligate

Antonyms for obligate

Phrases with obligate

obligated to secrecy
required to keep something confidential
Example
As a doctor, she was obligated to secrecy about her patient's medical history.
morally obligated
having a sense of duty or responsibility based on personal beliefs or values
Example
He felt morally obligated to speak out against the injustice he witnessed.
legally obligated
having a duty or responsibility based on a law or legal agreement
Example
The landlord is legally obligated to provide a safe living environment for tenants.

Origins of obligate

from Latin 'obligatus', past participle of 'obligare', meaning 'to bind'

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Summary: obligate in Brief

The verb 'obligate' [ˈɑːblɪɡeɪt] means to legally or morally require someone to do something, often due to duty or law. Examples include 'The company is obligated to provide safety training for its employees.' and 'She felt obligated to help her friend in need.' It can be used in phrases like 'obligated to secrecy,' referring to confidentiality requirements.