oblige

If a rule or situation makes you do something, it leaves you with no real choice.

• The rules oblige us to wear helmets.
• She felt obliged to attend the meeting.
• Heavy snow obliged them to turn back.

How to use it: oblige someone to do something (The law obliges employers to provide safety training.); be obliged to do something (We were obliged to cancel the trip.)

Similar words: require, force, compel

Common phrases: oblige someone to, legally oblige someone, oblige by law

To help someone by doing what they ask or want.

• I asked for help, and he obliged.
• The waiter was happy to oblige with extra plates.
• She obliged us by taking a photograph.

How to use it: oblige someone by doing something (Could you oblige me by opening the window?); oblige with something (She obliged with a short speech.)

Similar words: help, assist, accommodate

Opposites: refuse

Common phrases: happy to oblige, gladly oblige someone, oblige with something, oblige someone by

Used in a very polite request to say you would be grateful if someone did something.

• I would be obliged if you could reply today.
• We would be obliged if you sent us the details.
• You would oblige me greatly by keeping this private.

How to use it: would be obliged if someone could do something (I would be obliged if you could send the receipt.)

Common phrases: be obliged if, greatly oblige me

To make someone feel grateful because you have helped them.

• Much obliged for the lift!
• We are deeply obliged to everyone who helped.
• Your kindness has obliged me more than I can say.

How to use it: be much obliged to someone for something (I am much obliged to you for your help.)

Common phrases: much obliged, deeply oblige someone