obliged
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for obliged, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Required to do something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
See oblige. Compare obligated.
Full origin of obliged →Frequently asked questions
What does “obliged” mean?
The word “obliged” means required to do something. In plain terms, either required to do something, or thankful for a favour.
How do you pronounce “obliged”?
“Obliged” is pronounced uh-BLYJD (/əˈblaɪd͡ʒd/ in IPA).
How do you use “obliged” in a sentence?
Here is “obliged” used in a sentence: “By law, employers are obliged to provide safety equipment.”
What part of speech is “obliged”?
“Obliged” is an adjective.
Is “obliged” a common word?
“Obliged” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “obliged” have?
“Obliged” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: required to do something.
What is the difference between obliged and obligated?
Obliged and obligated are close synonyms, both meaning required to do something, and are used interchangeably in most contexts. Obliged is generally preferred in British English, while obligated is more common in American English, though both appear in each variety.
What is the difference between obliged and grateful?
Obliged can mean required to do something, but it can also mean grateful for a favour someone has done, as in "much obliged." In this second sense it functions much like grateful, though "obliged" often signals a slightly more formal or old-fashioned register.
Is much obliged still used today?
"Much obliged" is a polite, somewhat old-fashioned way of saying thank you, expressing that you feel grateful for a favour. It is still understood and occasionally used, especially in formal or courteous speech, though it sounds more traditional than a simple "thanks."