词性：adj.
音标：/əˈblɪɡ.ə.tɔːr.i/
释义： Obligatory describes something you do because you have to, not because you want to. 必须的，义务的，强制的，强迫的（有时候有可能是不情愿的）；
近义词： [bounden]
morally obligatory
[compulsory], [mandatory], [required]
required by rule
[de rigueur]
required by etiquette or usage or fashion
[imposed]
set forth authoritatively as obligatory
[incumbent on]
morally binding or necessary
[indispensable]
unavoidable
[prerequisite]
required as a prior condition or course of study
[necessary]
absolutely essential
第二个意思是 礼节性的，习惯性的，随大溜的，赶时髦的。
He didn’t touch me much, except for that one obligatory kiss.
I laugh, but it’s more of an obligatory laugh than a real one.
Well, it’s your birthday. Cake is obligatory.
My, um… my obligatory cultural activity is a girl.
@Chatbot 你是一个英语教学的大师，你会用通俗易懂的方式给学生讲解各类英语知识，现在请你给我解释下上面帖子中我着重讲解的单词，介绍下这些单词在正式文书和口语中的各类含义，各举几个地道，自然的例子。介绍下这些单词的来历，以及我如何才能记住这些单词呢？
Sure, I’d be happy to break down the word “obligatory” for you in a simple and easy-to-understand way, exploring its meanings, uses in both formal writing and casual conversation, and some tips on how to remember it.
Definition and Pronunciation
词性: 形容词 (adjective)
音标: /əˈblɪɡ.ə.tɔːr.i/
释义: Obligatory describes something you have to do, not because you want to, but because it’s required or imposed. Sometimes it’s done reluctantly.
Synonyms and Examples
Here are some synonyms and examples to give you a broader understanding:
-
Compulsory / Mandatory / Required: These are often used interchangeably to mean something that must be done because of a rule or law.
- Example: Wearing seat belts is compulsory/mandatory/required by law.
-
De rigueur: A French term used in English to mean something required by fashion or etiquette.
- Example: Wearing a black tie at the gala is de rigueur.
-
Imposed: Something set forth by authority.
- Example: The new tax was imposed by the government.
-
Incumbent on: Morally binding or necessary.
- Example: It is incumbent on the president to address the nation.
-
Indispensable / Necessary: Absolutely essential.
- Example: Clean water is indispensable/necessary for survival.
-
Prerequisite: Required as a prior condition.
- Example: Passing the entrance exam is a prerequisite for admission.
Other Uses
- Social or Cultural Obligation: Done out of social expectation.
- Example in Context: “He didn’t touch me much, except for that one obligatory kiss.” This implies the kiss was given out of social expectation rather than genuine desire.
- Example: “I laugh, but it’s more of an obligatory laugh than a real one.” This suggests the laugh is more polite or expected rather than heartfelt.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
-
Formal: The term is often used in formal documents to express something required by laws or regulations.
- Example: Completing the annual audit is obligatory for all publicly traded companies.
-
Informal: In casual conversation, it’s used to describe something done out of social or cultural expectation.
- Example: “Well, it’s your birthday. Cake is obligatory.”
Etymology
- The word obligatory originates from the Latin word “obligatus,” meaning “to bind” or “to tie.”
Tips for Remembering
- Mnemonic Device: Think of “obligatory” as “obligated to do.”
- Visual Cue: Imagine a checklist with items you must do—each item is obligatory.
- Practice: Use the word in sentences frequently to make it a part of your active vocabulary.
Recap
Use the word obligatory when describing something that must be done due to rules, social norms, or moral duty. Whether in formal contexts (legal requirements) or informal ones (social customs), keep practicing with context to deepen your understanding.
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions!