oblige
word
/əˈbɫaɪdʒ/
/əblˈaɪdʒ/
Definition
To make someone do something, usually because of a rule or request, or to do something helpful for someone as a favor.
Usage & Nuances
'Oblige' is slightly formal. Often used with 'by', 'to', or 'would you oblige' (to ask for a favor politely). It can mean to force someone or to do a favor, depending on the context. Don't confuse with 'obligate' (legal/formal force) or 'obliged' (grateful).
Spanish: obligar - hacer un favorPortuguese (BR): obrigar - fazer um favorPortuguese (PT): obrigar - fazer um favorChinese (Simplified): 强迫 - 帮忙Chinese (Traditional): 強迫 - 幫忙Hindi: मजबूर करना - मेहरबानी करनाArabic: يُلزم - يُسدي خدمةBengali: বাধ্য করা - উপকার করাRussian: обязывать - оказывать услугуJapanese: 義務を負わせる - 親切にするVietnamese: bắt buộc - giúp đỡKorean: 의무를 지우다 - 도와주다Turkish: zorunda bırakmak - iyilik yapmakUrdu: مجبور کرنا - احسان کرناIndonesian: memaksa - menolong
Example Sentences
The rules oblige students to wear uniforms.
basic
Could you oblige me by opening the window?
basic
He felt obliged to help his friend.
basic
If you need anything else, I’d be happy to oblige.
natural
The law obliges employers to provide safe working conditions.
natural
"Thanks for your help." – "Always happy to oblige!"
natural