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obligatory

adjective

/əˈblɪɡət(ə)ri/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of obligatory

Required or necessary, often due to a rule or social expectation.
"Attending the company's annual meeting is an obligatory event for all employees."

Detailed meaning of obligatory

It implies that there is a duty or responsibility to perform a certain action or adhere to a certain standard. For example, in many cultures, it is considered obligatory to show respect to elders, while in certain professions, certain safety measures may be obligatory in order to prevent accidents. When something is described as obligatory, it is typically not optional or discretionary, but rather something that must be done or followed in order to fulfill a particular obligation or expectation.

Example sentences containing obligatory

1. Wearing a seatbelt is an obligatory safety measure while driving.
2. Paying taxes is an obligatory civic duty for all citizens.
3. In some cultures, offering a gift to your host is considered obligatory when visiting someone's home.
4. Taking an obligatory break during long work hours can improve productivity.
5. Completing the mandatory training program is obligatory for new hires.
6. The doctor emphasized the obligatory nature of taking prescribed medication.

History and etymology of obligatory

The adjective 'obligatory' derives its etymological origins from the Latin word 'obligatus,' which is the past participle of 'obligare.' In Latin, 'ob-' signifies 'toward' or 'to,' and 'ligare' means 'to bind.' Therefore, 'obligare' literally meant 'to bind toward,' carrying the sense of binding someone to a particular action or duty. As the term transitioned into English, 'obligatory' came to describe something that is required or necessary, often due to a rule, law, or social expectation, emphasizing the idea that individuals are bound or compelled to fulfill a particular obligation. The etymology of 'obligatory' underscores the sense of duty and responsibility associated with actions or requirements that are considered obligatory.

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Further usage examples of obligatory

1. The school's policy made it clear that uniform compliance was obligatory.
2. In many countries, military service is an obligatory requirement for young adults.
3. Meeting the project deadline is an obligatory commitment for the team.
4. Attending the wedding ceremony is obligatory for close family members.
5. Following the safety guidelines is obligatory to prevent accidents.
6. The airline provided passengers with obligatory safety instructions before takeoff.
7. Participation in the charity event is obligatory for all club members.
8. Registering your vehicle with the appropriate authorities is an obligatory legal requirement.
9. The restaurant had an obligatory dress code for formal dining.
10. Filling out the application form correctly is obligatory to be considered for the scholarship.
11. The teacher stressed the importance of completing the obligatory homework assignments.
12. Taking the final exam is an obligatory step to pass the course.
13. Wearing a helmet is obligatory when riding a bicycle in this city.
14. Wearing a mask is now obligatory in most indoor public spaces.
15. Completing the safety training is obligatory for all new employees.
16. Paying taxes on time is an obligatory civic responsibility.
17. Attending the annual shareholders' meeting is obligatory.
18. Submitting the assignment by the deadline is obligatory.
19. In some cultures, family gatherings are obligatory events.
20. For a valid passport, a photo ID is obligatory.
21. Seat belts are obligatory for passengers in this vehicle.
22. Following the dress code is obligatory for this event.
23. Attending the mandatory staff meeting is obligatory.
24. Timely response to customer inquiries is obligatory in customer service.