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obligatory

[uh-blig-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee, ob-li-guh-] / əˈblɪg əˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i, ˈɒb lɪ gə- /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Then the obligatory excuse-making: “I think there is justifiable anger at the ongoing war.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

Then on Wednesday, Comey made the obligatory trek to a federal courthouse, appearing before a judge.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

"But ultimately, any decision that the leadership of the revolution announces is obligatory and we will obey."

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

Having reached the Five-Timers Club, as addressed in an obligatory monologue sketch featuring Jonah Hill, Tina Fey, Candice Bergen and others, Black was a returning hero.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

He gives me a sad, obligatory smile and then marches away, disappearing into the yellow, dust-filled air.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed




Vocabulary lists containing obligatory


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