oblige me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "oblige me" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in a polite or slightly formal tone to make a request or ask for a favor. Example: "Could you please oblige me by sending the report before the end of the day?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

He had to go and scream!" My mother herself was better able to oblige me.

The New Yorker

I had to taste such a thing, so I asked Bill Harlan to oblige me.

The New York Times - Magazine

I want to stay and follow its path, but other commitments oblige me to continue walking to the subway.

The New York Times

Tolerance does not oblige me to support artists who are unrepentant bigots.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although the slip-ups seldom involved mendacity or willfulness, they did oblige me to defend myself.

The New York Times

It would oblige me to change my views on yet another subject.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Taking the aforementioned time capsule approach permitted me--even conveniently obliged me--to run all 129 strips, each of which I have come to love for various reasons, and any of which is as likely as another to become my latest current favorite.

Huffington Post

The tunnel ceiling had been dropping, obliging me to crouch.

The New Yorker

He obliged me at least on this point.

The New York Times - Magazine

Nothing in my personal or professional life obliges me to do so.

The New Yorker

He obliged me with a smile, albeit the smile of a shark.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "oblige me", consider the context and audience to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. It's best suited for situations where a polite, slightly formal tone is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "oblige me" in highly informal settings, as it can sound overly formal or even stilted. Opt for more casual alternatives like "do me a favor" or "help me out".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "oblige me" functions as a polite request. It's used to ask someone to do something as a favor. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct. The phrase can be part of a direct question, like "Could you "oblige me"...?" or a statement of desire, like "I would appreciate it if you could "oblige me"."

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "oblige me" is a polite way to request a favor or assistance. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and the provided examples show its use in varied contexts, primarily in news and media. While acceptable, "oblige me" is not very common. Consider your audience and context to gauge if it's the appropriate register to use, as more casual alternatives might be preferred in informal settings. For similar requests, consider alternatives such as "do me a favor" or "assist me".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

accommodate me

Similar in meaning, focusing on providing assistance or fulfilling a request.

do me a favor

A more direct and informal way to ask for something.

grant me this request

A formal way to ask for something specific, emphasizing the act of granting.

be so kind as to help me

A very polite and somewhat old-fashioned way to ask for assistance.

would you be willing to assist me

A formal and polite inquiry about someone's willingness to help.

fulfill my request

Focuses on the completion or satisfaction of a specific request.

attend to my needs

Broadly requests attention and action towards one's requirements.

grant my wish

Suggests a desire being fulfilled, often in a more fanciful context.

meet my expectations

Implies a requirement or standard that needs to be satisfied.

satisfy my requirements

Highlights the fulfillment of necessary conditions or stipulations.

FAQs

How can I use "oblige me" in a sentence?

You can use "oblige me" to politely request someone to do something, as in "Could you "oblige me" by reviewing this document?" It's suitable for formal or semi-formal settings.

What are some alternatives to "oblige me"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "do me a favor", "help me out", or "assist me". The best choice depends on the level of formality and the specific request.

Is "oblige me" formal or informal?

"Oblige me" leans towards the formal side. While grammatically correct, it's not typically used in casual conversation. Consider your audience and the situation when deciding whether to use it.

What does "oblige me" really mean?

"Oblige me" means to do something as a favor or service for someone. It implies a request and a willingness on the part of the other person to fulfill that request.