significant obligation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "significant obligation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a duty or responsibility that is important or has considerable weight. Example: "As a team leader, I feel a significant obligation to ensure that all members are supported and heard."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Although monitoring is a significant obligation under the WFD, there is little guidance on developing monitoring protocols; Member States are developing ad hoc monitoring programme.

Marine Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Auditors and ratings agencies will then have to decide whether to sign off on their financial statements, or penalize the governments for failing to disclose significant obligations.

The New York Times

The decision was the second since 1998 in which the court vacated federal affirmative-action rules imposed on broadcasters, all but ending prospects that the industry will face any significant obligations to recruit minorities and women in the near future.

The New York Times

"For example," Ms. Schapiro said, "imposing significant obligations for market quality on some firms, but leaving other firms free to operate without those obligations — or, indeed, to take advantage of the firms with obligations — would create an unfair playing field that might, in the end, do little to promote market quality".

The New York Times

Policy makers bear significant obligations, and they deserve the benefit of unbiased, well-researched, objective information.

Huffington Post

These issues are not only for the international community but also for African scientists who have significant obligations to develop the research infrastructure and culture within their own countries.

Globalization and Health

The terms of the lease may also impose significant repairing obligations, known as dilapidations, which can be limited through correct negotiation, so getting proper advice is essential.

The Guardian

After the transfer, Interpublic, based in New York, will have no significant financial obligations for its former motor sports holdings or contracts.

The New York Times

As Mary L. Schapiro, the S.E.C. chairman, put it, in the old system "the market participants with the best access to the markets" — New York Stock Exchange specialists and Nasdaq market makers — "were subject to significant trading obligations that were designed to promote fair and orderly markets and fair treatment of investors".

The New York Times

Auto loans are the "most significant" financial obligations for the majority of military members, Stanley wrote.

Huffington Post

Understand your total net worth (assets and liabilities), and other significant financial obligations including mortgage or rent payments, retirement plan contributions, child support and alimony payments.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, consider quantifying the impact of fulfilling or neglecting the "significant obligation". This adds weight to the phrase and demonstrates its importance.

Common error

Avoid using "significant obligation" for minor or trivial duties. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility, making it less effective when describing truly important responsibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "significant obligation" functions as a noun phrase, where "significant" modifies the noun "obligation". It describes a duty or responsibility that is important, considerable, or has notable consequences. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "significant obligation" denotes a duty or responsibility of considerable importance. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. While not extremely frequent, it's used across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. Related phrases include "substantial responsibility" and "major duty". When using the phrase, clarity is paramount; clearly state who holds the obligation. Remember not to overstate the significance of minor duties to maintain the phrase's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

important obligation

Simple variation using the word "important" instead of "significant".

substantial responsibility

Emphasizes the weight and importance of the responsibility.

major duty

Highlights the importance of the duty.

considerable commitment

Focuses on the amount of time and resources required.

serious liability

Highlights the potential negative consequences of not fulfilling the obligation.

notable requirement

Focuses on the mandatory aspect and its prominence.

critical task

Emphasizes the importance of the task at hand.

vital undertaking

Highlights the essential nature of the undertaking.

key responsibility

Highlights the responsibility is considered important to the final result.

onerous duty

Implies the duty is difficult or burdensome.

FAQs

How can I use "significant obligation" in a sentence?

You can use "significant obligation" to describe important duties or responsibilities. For example, "As a company director, I have a "significant obligation" to act in the best interests of the shareholders".

What are some alternatives to "significant obligation"?

Alternatives include "substantial responsibility", "major duty", or "considerable commitment", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between a "significant obligation" and a "moral obligation"?

Yes, a "significant obligation" generally refers to a duty with substantial consequences, while a "moral obligation" refers to a duty based on ethical or moral principles, regardless of legal or practical consequences.

When is it appropriate to use the term "significant obligation"?

It's appropriate when describing a duty or responsibility that carries considerable weight, impact, or potential consequences. It is suitable in formal, professional, and academic contexts.