1
as in duty
something one must do because of prior agreement
their financial obligations keep them from giving to charities as much as they would like
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in debt
something (as money) which is owed
I have to pay off my current obligations before I can buy a new car
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of obligation
Steiner and other Postal Service officials also have called for reforms to its pension and retiree health benefit obligations, including the ability to invest the money in something other than Treasury bills.
—
Susan Haigh, Fortune, 6 Mar. 2026
More than masturbatory daydreams, Vladimir inspires our heroine to write with abandon, ignoring professional and personal obligations in service to her muse.
—Alison Herman, Variety, 5 Mar. 2026
Depending on your location, the law permits associations to impose fines, but only if the violation is based on a clear and enforceable obligation.
—Gary Singer, Sun Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026
Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha have multiplied Fernandes’ creative value and narrowed down some of his more difficult obligations.
—Carl Anka, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for obligation
Susan Haigh, Fortune, 6 Mar. 2026
More than masturbatory daydreams, Vladimir inspires our heroine to write with abandon, ignoring professional and personal obligations in service to her muse.
—Alison Herman, Variety, 5 Mar. 2026
Depending on your location, the law permits associations to impose fines, but only if the violation is based on a clear and enforceable obligation.
—Gary Singer, Sun Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026
Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha have multiplied Fernandes’ creative value and narrowed down some of his more difficult obligations.
—Carl Anka, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for obligation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for obligation
Noun
-
Peters was found guilty of three counts of attempting to influence a public servant and one count each of conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, first-degree official misconduct, violation of duty and failure to comply with the requirements of the secretary of state.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
6 Mar. 2026
-
This cosmic support guides your efforts to find a workable rhythm to your daily duties at home.—
Tarot.com,
Sun Sentinel,
5 Mar. 2026
Noun
-
Oracle has already leaned in on debt, relative to the other hyperescalers.—
Amanda Gerut,
Fortune,
7 Mar. 2026
-
And, of course, lenders consider more than just income in determining whether to approve a loan, including factors such as credit score, credit history and outstanding debt.—
Sarah Agostino,
CNBC,
7 Mar. 2026
Noun
-
Simmons’ priorities are fiscal stability with responsibility, public health and accountability around the operation of the county jail.—
Rachel Royster
Updated March 3,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
4 Mar. 2026
-
January 20 – February 18 Trust deep bonds to clarify shared responsibilities.—
Tarot.com,
The Orlando Sentinel,
3 Mar. 2026
Noun
-
It was then abandoned after the war as there was no financial need to continue it at the time.—
Chris Sims,
IndyStar,
8 Mar. 2026
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But the move wasn’t without its challenges, including limited access to capital as immigrants and the need to build a professional track record in a system where credit history and residency length matter.—
Laura Sharman,
CNN Money,
7 Mar. 2026
Noun
-
Honoring our commitments will be worth it.—
Tarot.com,
New York Daily News,
8 Mar. 2026
-
Devoted fans will catch every clever nod, while newcomers can enjoy the romance, rivalry, and Regency ridiculousness without the multi-volume commitment.—
Cincinnati Enquirer,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
7 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Obligation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/obligation. Accessed 11 Mar. 2026.
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