obliged (B2)

adjective

Pronunciation: /əˈblaɪdʒd/

Definition

Under a moral or legal duty to do something, or feeling grateful for a service or favor.

Examples

• I felt obliged to help her after she assisted me with my project.

• The law obliges all citizens to pay their taxes annually.

• We are much obliged to you for your kind invitation.

How to Use obliged

be obliged to do something (prepositional phrase)

To be required or feel a duty to perform an action. — "As a host, she felt obliged to offer her guests refreshments."

be obliged to someone for something (prepositional phrase)

To be grateful to someone for a favor or service. — "He was obliged to his neighbor for watering his plants while he was away."

Synonyms of obliged

Words with a similar meaning to obliged:

• bound
• indebted
• compelled
• beholden

Antonyms of obliged

Words with the opposite meaning to obliged:

• free
• unburdened

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