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Definitions

oblige

[uh-blahyj] / əˈblaɪdʒ /
VERB
require
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bind compel constrain impel obligate
STRONG
coerce command force make necessitate
WEAK
shotgun
Antonyms
STRONGEST
delay free release
WEAK
be mean let off
VERB
do a favor or kindness
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accommodate gratify please
STRONG
aid assist avail benefit contribute favor help indulge profit serve
WEAK
bend over backward come around convenience don't make waves fill the bill fit in go fifty-fifty grin and bear it make a deal make room meet halfway put oneself out roll with it swim with the tide take it toe the mark
Antonyms
STRONGEST
annoy disturb frustrate upset
STRONG
block counteract harm hinder hurt injure obstruct stop take thwart
WEAK
be mean let off

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sane, an energy company executive, says he was happy to oblige.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 28, 2026

They rode to work in Rolls-Royces and adhered to a Protestant ethic of noblesse oblige.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 21, 2025

Before the end of the year, Pham hopes to rationalize conflicting rules that now oblige traders to put up more collateral than needed to secure margin loans.

From Barron's • Oct. 21, 2025

And Hele, a destructive runner who has been one of the stars of the tournament, was happy to oblige.

From BBC • Sep. 12, 2025

“Delighted to oblige you ladies,” said the bard.

From "The Black Cauldron" by Lloyd Alexander

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.