obligatory - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
obligatory Word Meanings
- required by law or duty
- compulsory
- not optional
obligatory Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
obligatory Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈblɪɡətri/
US
/əˈblɪɡətɔri/
obligatory Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'ob-' (against) + 'ligare' (to bind). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person being tied to a commitment, feeling the weight of obligation—a visual reminder that some duties cannot be ignored.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Obligatory describes something that must be done because of law, rule, or strong duty. It marks a formal requirement with little room for choice, sitting between optional and mandatory in many contexts. You might hear phrases like an obligatory safety briefing or an obligatory tax return, especially in professional or governmental settings. The word carries a sense of duty and consequence, rather than personal preference, and is commonly used in educational, legal, and administrative language. It does not take an -ing form when used as a pre-nominal modifier, so you say an obligatory form or an obligatory measure, not an obligating form.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: obligatory = mandatory but with a formal, duty-bound nuance. Do not confuse with optional or voluntary. Use in formal settings and legal/administrative contexts. Pair with nouns that denote requirements. It often appears before nouns: obligatory courses, obligatory forms. Do not use with gerunds here.
Common Misconceptions
- Confuse obligatory with optional or voluntary
- Think it means fun or exciting
- Mistake it as similar to mandatory in all senses
- Confuse with obligation as a noun form
- Use in informal speech where mandatory would fit better
Thinking Differences
obligatory sits on a formal duty rather than personal choice; learners may overuse it in casual talk or swap it with mandatory in every context.
Learning Tips
- Link obligatory with formal nouns (courses, forms, requirements).
- Differentiate from optional by context and tone.
- Practice collocations like obligatory reading, obligatory compliance.
- Avoid using with verbs in -ing in attributive position.
- Check register: use in legal/admin text, not casual chat.
- Pair with synonyms like mandatory when emphasis is strict.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'obligatory'?
A.Something that is optional
B.Something that is necessary
C.Something that is interesting
D.Something that is joyful
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'obligatory' correctly.
A.The dessert was obligatory even though no one wanted it.
B.It is obligatory to wear a coat on warm days.
C.Attendance at the event is obligatory for everyone.
D.She felt it was obligatory to take time off for the holiday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'obligatory'?
A.Mandatory
B.Voluntary
C.Optional
D.Special
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'obligatory'?
A.Optional
B.Essential
C.Required
D.Compulsory
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a scenario where a requirement isn't met?
A.He skipped the mandatory meeting without informing anyone.
B.Completing the assignment was something they chose to do anyway.
C.She decided to enjoy the day off from the obligatory tasks.
D.He made the necessary plans for the upcoming event.
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