obligation of affection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "obligation of affection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing emotional responsibilities or expectations in relationships. Example: "In a family, there is often an obligation of affection that binds members together, regardless of their differences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

His view represented a higher patriotism: a loyalty and affection that, rather than ignoring blemishes, accepts that removing them is the obligation of affection.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The routine sacrificial offering of human beings, usually prisoners from the Qiang tribe, as if they were sacrificial animals and the rarer practice of accompanying-in-death, in which 40 or more retainers, often of high status, were buried with a dead king, suggest the degree to which ties of affection, obligation, or servitude were thought to be stronger than life itself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The adult children of a mother who died a few years earlier in a plane crash and a father with terminal cancer, Margaret, Edie and Max Bramble have come together less out of affection than obligation.

The New York Times - Books

The exchange of gifts or money for sex may signify: 1) a committed relationship, 2) an acknowledgement of respect, 3) an expression of affection, 4) an obligation fulfilled, or 5) maybe a display to impress other men (9, 12– 12).

Global Health Action

Citizens in such a society view the self as both whole and dependent, connected by sacred ties of mutual obligation and affection with fellow church members, citizens and neighbours – not just self-selected friends and one's nuclear family.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, HCAs who are engaged in enduring relationships with their clients may find it difficult to distinguish between role, extra-role, and 'excessive' extra-role behaviors due to their strong feelings of obligation, concern, and affection for their clients.

Human Resources for Health

In addition, support from friends is usually voluntary, sustained only by feelings of affection, mutuality, and love (Yeung and Fung 2007), but not motivated by moral obligations (typical of family ties, Merz et al. 2009).

Genus

It is a term of affection.

The New York Times

Public displays of affection provide that visibility.

The New York Times

It is an irreverent term of affection.

Independent

The dog knew no hierarchy of affection.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "obligation of affection" when you want to emphasize a sense of duty tied to emotional connection, particularly in close relationships or societal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "obligation of affection" to describe forced or insincere expressions of emotion. Ensure the context implies genuine care and responsibility, not simply a superficial performance of affection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "obligation of affection" functions as a noun phrase that describes a moral or social imperative to show care and emotional support. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase pertains to contexts emphasizing emotional responsibility within relationships.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

17%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "obligation of affection" is a noun phrase that denotes a sense of duty related to emotional connection and care. While Ludwig AI deems it grammatically correct and usable, it's relatively rare, appearing mostly in news, encyclopedias and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, consider its nuances, as it reflects a moral or social expectation rather than a forced emotion. Related phrases like "emotional duty" or "responsibility of love" can offer alternative ways to express this concept. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure context and intention align when employing this phrase, which suggests a genuine rather than superficial expression of care.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Emotional duty

This alternative focuses on the sense of duty related to emotions within a relationship.

Affectionate responsibility

This phrase highlights the responsibility one has to be affectionate.

Emotional commitment

This suggests a strong dedication to providing emotional support and care.

Duty of care

This alternative emphasizes the responsibility to protect and ensure the well-being of someone.

Responsibility of love

This phrase focuses on the responsibilities that come with loving someone.

Moral obligation to care

This highlights the moral aspect of caring for someone.

Expected affection

This focuses on the expectation of showing affection in a relationship.

Reciprocal affection

This stresses the mutual exchange of affection and care.

Emotional bond

This emphasizes the emotional connection and tie between people.

Affectionate expectation

This phrase focuses on the expectation of affection within the relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "obligation of affection" in a sentence?

You might use "obligation of affection" to describe a bond within a family or community, where members feel a duty to care for and support each other emotionally. For example: "In a close-knit community, there is often an unspoken "obligation of affection" that binds people together."

What is a phrase similar to "obligation of affection"?

Similar phrases include "emotional duty", "responsibility of love", or "duty of care". These alternatives emphasize different aspects of the emotional connection and responsibilities within relationships.

Is it appropriate to use "obligation of affection" in a professional context?

While "obligation of affection" is generally used in personal or social contexts, it can be adapted to professional settings when discussing employee well-being or ethical responsibilities. However, ensure that the language remains appropriate and does not create unrealistic expectations of emotional labor.

What's the difference between "obligation of affection" and "sense of duty"?

While both phrases imply a responsibility, "obligation of affection" specifically relates to emotional care and connection. "Sense of duty" is a broader term that can encompass various responsibilities, not necessarily tied to emotions. The key difference is that the former centers on emotional bonds, while the latter can apply to any type of duty.