Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
this is obligatory
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "this is obligatory" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is required or mandatory in a specific context. Example: "In order to comply with the regulations, this is obligatory for all participants."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Wiki
Alternative expressions(20)
this is indispensable
this is guaranteed
this is a necessity
this is voluntary
this is crucial
this is needed
this is desired
this is measured
this is a must
this is requested
this is issued
this is authorized
this is compulsory
this is prescribed
this is permitted
this is demanded
this is imperative
this is essential
this is vital
this is preferred
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
6 human-written examples
This is in stark contrast to many countries, where this is obligatory.
News & Media
This is obligatory in other countries, such as the US and UK.
News & Media
Although all OC retailers surveyed agree that this is obligatory in the long run, it is not yet standard for all.
Science
This is obligatory for comparing one type of infection to another in relation to outcomes, utilization of resources, and other matters of interest.
Science
This is obligatory!
Wiki
This is obligatory: neuter or spay your cat.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
54 human-written examples
Approximately one third of those GPs who had referred patients did not receive a report, despite this being obligatory in Norway.
"This evacuation is obligatory; it's not voluntary," Chadwick told reporters.
News & Media
This book is obligatory reading for anyone interested in the current politics, science, and technologies of sustainable energy.
This impulse is obligatory in anyone who aspires to the sense of self as a moral, caring person.
Encyclopedias
Membership in this system is obligatory for wage earners in both the public and private sectors, for self-employed people, and farmers.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "this is obligatory", ensure the context clearly defines what 'this' refers to. Clarity is key to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Submitting the form is obligatory for all participants."
Common error
Avoid using "this is obligatory" in casual conversation. While grammatically correct, it sounds overly formal and stiff. Opt for more natural alternatives like "this is a must" or "this is required" in informal settings.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "this is obligatory" functions as a statement of requirement or necessity. Based on Ludwig's analysis, it asserts that a particular action, condition, or item is not optional but mandatory. Examples show it being used in legal, ethical, and practical contexts to emphasize compliance.
Frequent in
Science
43%
News & Media
34%
Wiki
14%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
9%
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "this is obligatory" serves to denote a requirement or mandate. While grammatically sound, as noted by Ludwig, it leans toward formality and is best suited for contexts where compliance or adherence is paramount. Although, as Ludwig's examples show, "this is obligatory" is more frequent in science and news media, users should consider synonyms like "this is mandatory" or "this is required" in less formal settings. While the phrase is understandable in most contexts, its formal register should be taken into account for the desired effect.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
this is mandatory
Replaces 'obligatory' with 'mandatory', implying a formal requirement.
this is compulsory
Uses 'compulsory' instead of 'obligatory', suggesting something enforced or required by rule.
this is required
Substitutes 'obligatory' with 'required', indicating a need or condition that must be met.
this is a necessity
Expresses that something is essential or indispensable.
this is essential
Emphasizes the importance or fundamental nature of something.
this is imperative
Highlights the urgency or crucial nature of something.
this is unavoidable
Indicates that something cannot be prevented or escaped.
this is a must
An informal way of saying something is absolutely necessary or highly recommended.
this is binding
Implies a legal or moral obligation that must be followed.
this is prescribed
Suggests that something is officially recommended or ordered.
FAQs
What can I say instead of "this is obligatory"?
You can use alternatives like "this is mandatory", "this is required", or "this is essential" depending on the context.
How to use "this is obligatory" in a sentence?
Use "this is obligatory" to emphasize that something is a requirement or must be done. For example, "Registration is free, but filling out the health questionnaire is obligatory."
What's the difference between "this is obligatory" and "this is voluntary"?
"This is obligatory" means something is required, whereas "this is voluntary" means it is optional and not required.
Is "this is obligatory" formal or informal?
"This is obligatory" is generally considered formal. In less formal contexts, you might prefer saying "this is required" or "this is essential".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested