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obligation

noun
 
 
/ˌɒb.lɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/ US  /ˌɑː.blə-/

Definition

B2 [C or U] the fact that you are obliged to do something: [+ to infinitive] If you have not signed a contract, you are under no obligation to (= it is not necessary to) pay them any money. You have a legal obligation to (= the law says you must) ensure your child receives a proper education.Duty, obligation and responsibility [C] something that you must do: I haven't got time to do his work for him - I've got too many obligations as it is.Duty, obligation and responsibility
(Definition of obligation noun from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press)
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