Obliged vs Obligated
What’s the difference between them?
Obliged
Meaning:
indebted for a service or favor.
Examples:
1. I am obliged for your kind offer of help.
2. We are obliged to follow the law.
3. I am obliged to him for his generous assistance.
Obligated
Meaning:
to be morally or legally bound to do something; to feel a necessity or strong desire to do something.
Examples:
1. I am obligated to finish the project by tomorrow.
2. She feels obligated to help the needy.
3. He was obligated to take care of his siblings.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Obliged
1. Indebted
2. Grateful
3. Appreciative
4. Reluctantly obliged
5. In one's debt
1. Disinclined
2. Free
3. Unwilling
4. Unobligated
5. Not indebted
Obligated
1. Bound
2. Required
3. Obliged
4. Compelled
5. Duty-bound
1. Unencumbered
2. Unbound
3. At Liberty
4. Unconstrained
5. Not Obliged
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Obliged", "Obligated".
1. Obliged is used to indicate a feeling of being thankful or indebted to someone for a favor.
2. Obligated is used to refer to a duty or responsibility that someone is expected to fulfill.
3. A good mnemonic phrase to remember the difference between these words is: 'I am obliged to be thankful, but obligated to fulfill my duties.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'Obliged' is often used in expressions of gratitude or when someone feels indebted for a favor or kindness. It conveys a sense of appreciation.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'Obligated' is used when referring to a sense of duty or legal requirement. It implies a binding commitment or responsibility.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, they don't. 'Obliged' is pronounced as oh-BLAHYJD, while 'obligated' is pronounced as OH-bli-gey-ted.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake is using them interchangeably. While they convey similar ideas, 'obliged' leans more towards gratitude, and 'obligated' towards duty. Always consider the nuance.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. There was a general sense of ____ among the crowd after the show of generosity from the philanthropist.
2. My boss made it clear that I was ____ to finish the project as soon as possible.
3. I was ____ to politely decline the offer of help as I could manage on my own.
4. She felt ____ to take on extra responsibilities at work in order to prove her worth.
5. We were ____ to give thanks to our host for their hospitality.
6. He was ____ to take the blame for the error even though it wasnt his fault.
1. Obliged
Explanation: This word means to be under an obligation or duty to do something. In this context, the sense of obligation comes from the show of generosity from the philanthropist.
2. Obligated
Explanation: This word means to be bound by an obligation or duty. In this context, the boss is putting an obligation on the employee to finish the project as soon as possible.
3. Obliged
Explanation: This word means to be under an obligation or duty to do something. In this context, the polite decline of help is out of a sense of obligation to manage on ones own.
4. Obligated
Explanation: This word means to be bound by an obligation or duty. In this context, the employee is taking on extra responsibilities out of a sense of obligation to prove her worth.
5. Obliged
Explanation: This word means to be under an obligation or duty to do something. In this context, the obligation to give thanks is out of a sense of respect for the hosts hospitality.
6. Obliged
Explanation: This word means to be under an obligation or duty to do something. In this context, the obligation to take the blame is out of a sense of responsibility despite it not being ones fault.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.