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obligatory

/əˈblɪɡət(ə)ɹi/adjective

Required by law, rules, or duty; something you must do.

Example sentences

  • “Attendance at the safety training is obligatory for all new employees.”
  • “Students must complete two obligatory courses in math.”

Often ironic: 'the obligatory group photo' is one taken because it is always taken.

Featured as word of the day on January 23, 2026.

Synonyms for obligatory

  • compulsory
  • mandatory
  • required

Antonyms

  • optional
  • voluntary

Related words