to be obligatory

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be obligatory" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is required or mandatory in a specific context. Example: "In this course, attendance is to be obligatory for all students to ensure they grasp the material fully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

They seem to be obligatory.

The Guardian - Arts

Gauker also demonstrates the illuminating consequences of eschewing platitudes once thought to be obligatory.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Membership in a cooperative and the use of government marketing organizations ceased to be obligatory.

Britannica

Yeast seems to be obligatory – Rhodes and Smith use nothing else.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Every commentator declares this to be obligatory, yet none says how.

The Guardian - Opinion

But while national stereotypes may be welcome in this arena, they don't seem to be obligatory.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Mrs. Thatcher said the restrictions would have to be be obligatory and their application carefully monitored.

The New York Times

This will be obligatory to achieve the anticipated benefits of new data-sharing models in healthcare.

Insights into Imaging

A lateral approach in sinus lifting might be obligatory to securely detect and therefore treat a perforation.

International Journal of Implant Dentistry

Transmission of such a change to the referring clinician should be obligatory".

Insights into Imaging

His course, "Introduction to Speech" is obligatory for all St . Johns undergraduates.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be obligatory", ensure the context clearly defines who or what is bound by the obligation. This clarifies the responsibility and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to be obligatory" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "required" or "necessary" are often more appropriate and less formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be obligatory" functions as a predicative adjective phrase. It describes a noun or pronoun, indicating that something is required or mandatory. As Ludwig shows, it's often used to express a sense of duty or necessity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be obligatory" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that something is required or mandatory. As Ludwig shows, its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to scientific publications. While versatile, its formality often makes it more suitable for formal writing than casual conversation. Alternative phrases such as "to be required" or "to be mandatory" can provide similar meanings with varying degrees of formality. When using this phrase, clarity is key, ensuring the context clearly defines the scope and subject of the obligation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be required

This alternative is more direct and commonly used in formal settings.

to be mandatory

This alternative emphasizes the compulsory nature of the action or item.

to be compulsory

This alternative stresses the legally enforced nature of the obligation.

to be a must

This alternative is more informal and implies a strong recommendation.

to be essential

This alternative highlights the importance and necessity of something.

to be imperative

This alternative conveys a sense of urgency and critical importance.

to be unavoidable

This alternative focuses on the lack of alternatives or ways to circumvent the action.

to be a necessity

This alternative emphasizes that something is indispensable.

to be requisite

This alternative suggests that something is needed for a specific purpose or outcome.

to be de rigueur

This alternative implies that something is expected or fashionable in a particular social context.

FAQs

What does "to be obligatory" mean?

The phrase "to be obligatory" means something is required, mandatory, or essential. It indicates a duty or necessity that must be fulfilled.

What can I say instead of "to be obligatory"?

You can use alternatives like "to be required", "to be mandatory", or "to be essential" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "to be obligatory" or "to be mandatory"?

"To be mandatory" is generally more common and easily understood. "To be obligatory" can sound more formal or legalistic. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and audience of your writing.

How do I use "to be obligatory" in a sentence?

You can use "to be obligatory" to express a requirement or duty, such as: "Attendance is "to be obligatory" for all students."