is it obligatory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is it obligatory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when inquiring about the necessity or requirement of something. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, I need to know: is it obligatory to submit the report by Friday?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But is it obligatory?

The New York Times - Magazine

But is it obligatory for either of them to be the new Thatcher?

The Guardian

However, by no means is it obligatory to leave the matter there.

SEP

One was: "How can I serve a formal dinner for eight, without a maid?" Another was: "Is it obligatory for the person winning first prize at bridge to give her prize to the guest of honor, especially if the guest of honor has received a special guest prize?" In all her experience Mrs. Post had never encountered anything like this.

The New Yorker

Is it obligatory that, no matter how much you are lost in the moment, you have to point at yourself if you appear on the big screen?

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

As for getting "the advice of established Muslim organizations experienced in volatile post-9/11 post-9/11and passions" — perhand that would have been clever and useful, but was it obligatory?

The New Yorker

It is its obligatory duty to prevent it and protect the freedom of expression".

The New York Times

With everybody else is it's kinda obligatory".

Vice

Is imprecision obligatory or is it merely permissible?

SEP

"Francis has made it not just safe to be Catholic and green; he's made it obligatory".

The Guardian

But the idea that it is obligatory that it is either raining or not raining, something that couldn't be otherwise on logical grounds, seems counterintuitive.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is it obligatory", consider the context and whether a more direct synonym like "required" or "necessary" might be clearer and more concise.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "is it obligatory" can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Opt for "do I have to?" or "is it necessary?" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is it obligatory" functions as an interrogative clause, specifically asking about the necessity or requirement of an action or situation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is it obligatory" serves as an interrogative requesting confirmation about the mandatory nature of something. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for written communication. While its usage spans across contexts like news, science, and formal communication, it's less common in informal settings. Consider that synonyms such as "is it required" or "is it necessary" might offer more concise options depending on the situation. Remember, while grammatically accurate, its formal tone might not always suit casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it required

Changes the focus to requirement rather than obligation, suggesting a need based on external factors.

is it mandatory

Implies a stricter enforcement or rule-based necessity.

is it compulsory

Similar to mandatory, suggesting a rule or law dictates the necessity.

is it necessary

Focuses on the essential nature of something, whether it's unavoidable or critical for a purpose.

is it essential

Highlights the indispensable quality of something, suggesting it's vital.

is it a must

A more informal way to ask if something is absolutely required.

does it have to be done

Shifts the emphasis to the action, questioning the inevitability of its completion.

is it a requirement

Focuses specifically on whether something is a formally stated necessity.

is it a prerequisite

Asks whether something is a necessary condition that must be met before proceeding.

is it demanded

Suggests the necessity comes from a position of authority or strong expectation.

FAQs

What does "is it obligatory" mean?

The phrase "is it obligatory" means asking whether something is required, mandatory, or necessary according to a rule, law, or moral principle.

How can I use "is it obligatory" in a sentence?

You can use "is it obligatory" to inquire about whether an action or task is required. For example, "Is it obligatory to attend the meeting?"

What can I say instead of "is it obligatory"?

You can use alternatives like "is it required", "is it necessary", or "is it mandatory" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is it obligatory" or "is it obligated"?

"Is it obligatory" is the correct phrasing to inquire whether something is required. "Is it obligated" is less common and usually implies someone has a duty or responsibility.