Re: Obliged/obligated

Posted by GPP on August 22, 2003

In Reply to: Re: Obliged/obligated posted by GPP on August 22, 2003

: : Can anyone tell me the purpose of the word 'obligated'? It seems unnecessary. Is there anything 'obligated' can do that 'obliged' can't?

: : This is just a personal dislike with no foundation except that I just don't like the word 'obligate'. However, the dictionary does provide a slight differentiation between the meaning of each word. But I found it difficult to understand the difference.

: : I'd be obliged for any assistance.

: Yes, well might you be, but none of us are obligated to offer you any. I would never use 'obliged' in that latter sense.

I guess I would used 'obliged' to express appreciation as opposed to obligation.