fewer obligations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fewer obligations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a reduction in the number of responsibilities or commitments one has. Example: "After the restructuring of the project, I found myself with fewer obligations, allowing me to focus on my personal goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

In the United States you have a very diverse, individualistic society where people feel fewer obligations to fellow citizens.

The Guardian

Of course while smaller companies can take advantage of the freedom that comes with a smaller overhead and fewer obligations, the search for audiences is crucial for them too.

The New York Times

The scene outside City Hall was instead a demonstration of the extent to which Mr. Bloomberg, as the new mayor's aides like to point out, won office with fewer obligations than any mayor in memory.

The New York Times

However, the issuer is usually subject to fewer obligations than under a bank loan – and currently the huge advantage for issuers is that, unlike bank lenders, capital markets investors are prepared to lend (to stable business models) for 20 to 30 year maturities at fixed rates.

The Guardian

In the US you have a very diverse, individualistic society where people feel fewer obligations to fellow citizens.

Comparative Migration Studies

Smaller families may provide more time and fewer obligations that would enable them to engage in diverse activities required in new business settings and taking more risks.

Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

EXCEPT perhaps for Jimmy Carter, Barack Obama arrives at the White House having the fewest obligations to the established political order in modern times.

The New York Times

And as Prime Minister he still depends on a small group of advisers, and feels few obligations to the old institutions.

The Guardian

"It's sad that so many people won't vote because it's one of the few obligations we have as citizens," said Carlos Téllez, a Mexico City printer.

The New York Times

At Gateway Center, only three local groups were parties to the agreement and few obligations were actually imposed on Related, Mr. Gross said.

The New York Times

Graduate school was the part of my life when I had the most free time and the fewest obligations, when I discussed fiction the most and read it the least.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing professional roles or projects, use "fewer obligations" to emphasize a streamlined focus on core responsibilities, highlighting efficiency and prioritization.

Common error

Avoid using "fewer obligations" in contexts where responsibility is valued; consider alternatives like "more focused role" to maintain a positive and proactive tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fewer obligations" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes a reduced quantity of duties or responsibilities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fewer obligations" is a grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a reduction in duties or commitments. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity. While not exceedingly common, it appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media, and science related articles. The phrase is generally neutral in tone and can be used in professional settings with careful synonym selection to suit the context. It's important to be mindful of potential negative connotations and to consider alternatives when emphasizing responsibility is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced responsibilities

Focuses on the diminished level of accountability or duties.

less responsibility

Highlights a decreased burden of duty or oversight.

decreased commitments

Emphasizes a lighter load of engagements or promises.

lighter workload

Refers to a reduced amount of work or tasks.

diminished duties

Highlights a reduction in assigned tasks or roles.

relaxed constraints

Implies more freedom due to fewer limiting factors.

less encumbered

Indicates a state of being less burdened or weighed down.

freer from commitments

Highlights the state of being more available due to a reduction in previously scheduled events.

more available time

Highlights a gain in time due to decrease in commitments

unburdened

Emphasizes the feeling of relief from responsibilities.

FAQs

How can I use "fewer obligations" in a sentence?

You can use "fewer obligations" to describe a situation where someone has reduced responsibilities, such as "After the restructuring, I had "fewer obligations" at work".

What is a formal alternative to "fewer obligations"?

In formal contexts, you might use alternatives like "reduced responsibilities" or "decreased commitments" instead of "fewer obligations" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "fewer obligations" and "less responsibility"?

"Fewer obligations" refers to a reduced number of specific duties or commitments, while "less responsibility" implies a decreased overall burden of accountability. They can be used interchangeably, but "less responsibility" is broader.

When is it appropriate to use "fewer obligations"?

It is appropriate to use "fewer obligations" when describing a situation where there has been a tangible decrease in the number of tasks, duties, or commitments someone is expected to fulfill. For example, "Retiring early gave him "fewer obligations" and more free time".