we are obliged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are obliged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a sense of duty or necessity to do something, often in formal contexts. Example: "As a company, we are obliged to follow all safety regulations to ensure the well-being of our employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We are obliged to stay".

The Guardian

We are obliged to accept their wishes".

The Guardian

We are obliged to remain very, very humane".

The New Yorker

In their name, we are obliged to rebuild.

The Economist

I don't feel we are obliged to promote a book".

The New York Times

"We are obliged to start a scandal now".

The New York Times

"We are obliged to follow the law," Ms. Kreisher said.

The New York Times

We are obliged to be against it together".

The Guardian

It's unshakeable, and we are obliged to live with it in this era when television rules.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are obliged to sleep on our arms which is extremely disagreeable".

The New York Times

PKK leaders insist: "We are obliged to maintain this halt to hostilities, without succumbing to doubt".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider the audience and context. "We are obliged" is suitable for formal reports, legal documents, and official communications where clarity and precision are important.

Common error

Avoid using "we are obliged" in informal settings or everyday conversation, as it can sound overly stiff or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we have to" or "we need to" in less formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are obliged" functions as a declarative statement expressing a sense of duty, necessity, or legal requirement. Ludwig examples showcase its usage across various contexts, primarily to indicate a commitment to adhere to rules, laws, or ethical standards.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are obliged" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that indicates a formal sense of duty or legal requirement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase appears often in news, science, and formal business contexts, denoting a commitment to specific actions. When writing, consider the audience and context, using simpler alternatives like "we have to" in informal settings. Although both "we are obliged" and "we are obligated" are correct, "we are obliged" has British English leaning. Remember, it expresses more than simple willingness, it expresses formal commitments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are required

This alternative implies a more formal requirement, often by rule or law.

we are under an obligation

This is a more formal and explicit way of stating the obligation.

we are compelled

This suggests a stronger force or pressure making the action necessary.

we are morally obligated

This emphasizes the moral aspect of the obligation.

we are duty-bound

This phrase emphasizes the moral or ethical aspect of the obligation.

we are bound

This indicates a legal or contractual obligation.

it is incumbent upon us

This is a more formal and emphatic expression of duty.

we have a responsibility

This highlights the accountability and importance of the action.

we are beholden

This suggests a feeling of indebtedness or gratitude that compels action.

we must

This is a shorter, more direct way of expressing necessity.

FAQs

How to use "we are obliged" in a sentence?

Use "we are obliged" to express a formal duty or requirement. For example, "As members of this organization, "we are obliged" to uphold its values".

What can I say instead of "we are obliged"?

You can use alternatives like "we are required", "we are compelled", or "we have a responsibility" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "we are obliged" or "we are obligated"?

Both "we are obliged" and "we are obligated" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably, although "we are obliged" is more common in British English. The better choice depends on regional dialect preferences.

What's the difference between "we are obliged" and "we feel obliged"?

"We are obliged" suggests a formal duty or requirement, while "we feel obliged" indicates a sense of moral or social pressure, even if no formal rule exists.