to require or constrain someone to do something as a legal or moral duty, to do something as a favor or courtesy

feel obliged, oblige oneself, oblige someone's request

much obliged, be obliged to, oblige someone with something

Formal and Informal Expressions of oblige

In different contexts, you can replace 'oblige' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'require, constrain, mandate' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'do a favor, help out' is a commonplace synonym.

oblige: Explore its Definition & Usage

oblige Definition

1to require or constrain someone to do something as a legal or moral duty
2to do something as a favor or courtesy

Using oblige: Examples

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

Example
The law obliges companies to provide a safe working environment.
Example
I am obliged to report this incident to the authorities.
Example
Could you oblige me by holding the door open?
Example
He obliged his friend by lending him some money.

oblige Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for oblige

Antonyms for oblige

Idioms Using oblige

feel obliged
to feel grateful or indebted to someone
Example
I feel obliged to thank you for your help.
oblige oneself
to make a promise or commitment to do something
Example
I have obliged myself to finish this project by the end of the week.
oblige someone's request
to fulfill or satisfy someone's request or demand
Example
The hotel staff obliged our request for a late check-out.

Phrases with oblige

much obliged
a polite way of saying thank you
Example
Much obliged for your help.
be obliged to
to be required or forced to do something
Example
I am obliged to attend the meeting.
oblige someone with something
to do something for someone as a favor or courtesy
Example
Could you oblige me with a glass of water?

Origins of oblige

from Old French 'obliger', meaning 'to bind'

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Summary: oblige in Brief

'Oblige' [əˈblaɪdʒ] means to require or constrain someone to do something as a legal or moral duty, or to do something as a favor or courtesy. It can be used in formal contexts such as 'The law obliges companies to provide a safe working environment,' or in informal situations like 'Could you oblige me by holding the door open?' The phrase 'much obliged' is a polite way of saying thank you.