obligatorily

Everyday

(formal) Because a rule or law says you must; in a way that is required, not a choice. tree →

In the lessons

A stiff formal word used in rules, law and exam language: things that must be done "obligatorily" are compulsory. In everyday speech people say "you have to" or "it's compulsory".

Examples

• Seatbelts must be worn obligatorily in cars. tree →
• In some countries, voting is done obligatorily. tree →
• Helmets are obligatorily worn on the building site. tree →
• The form must obligatorily be signed by a parent. tree →
• All visitors obligatorily sign in at the office. tree →
• Uniform is obligatorily worn in many UK schools. tree →

Note

Formal and rare; the adjective "obligatory" (compulsory, must be done) is far more common. Pronounced "ob-LIG-uh-tor-uh-lee" (UK) or "uh-blig-uh-TOR-uh-lee" (US). Opposite: "optionally", "voluntarily".