C1verbformallawbusiness
US/ˈɑːb.lə.ɡeɪt/
UK/ˈɒb.lɪ.ɡeɪt/
to make someone legally or morally have to do something
In context
The contract obligates the supplier to deliver all goods within ten days.
You are not obligated to accept the offer if the terms are unfair.
Employers are obligated by law to provide a safe workplace.
Words that go with obligate
verb + preposition
- be obligated toTenants are obligated to pay rent on the first of the month.
- obligate someone toThe agreement obligates both sides to keep the terms secret.
verb + adjective
- feel obligatedI felt obligated to reply to every email.
adverb + verb
- legally obligatedThe company is legally obligated to report the accident.
- contractually obligatedWe are contractually obligated to finish by June.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I am obligate to work on Sunday.Correct: I am obligated to work on Sunday.