Mandatory vs obligatory

Both 'mandatory' and 'obligatory' are correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. They both mean required by rule or law. The choice between them may depend on personal preference or the specific context in which they are used.

Last updated: March 28, 2024 • 1071 views

The word 'mandatory' is correct and commonly used in English to describe something that is required by rule or law.

"Mandatory"

It is used to indicate that something is obligatory or required, often due to a rule, law, or regulation.

Examples:

Wearing a helmet is mandatory when riding a motorcycle.
Attendance at the meeting is mandatory for all employees.
The completion of the form is mandatory for processing your application.
The use of safety equipment is mandatory in this area.
The training course is mandatory for all new employees.

Show examples from the web [+]

The Mandatory Marriage Act got passed today.
Mandatory for services with an explicit geographic extent.
Mandatory CO2 targets for cars and vans
Mandatory appointment of a statutory auditor.
Mandatory membership of animal health service.
Mandatory education in Argentina is divided in three phases.
Mandatory statutory provisions, in particular retention periods, remain unaffected.
Mandatory if the rating was withdrawn during the reporting period.
Mandatory field "Contributor" is empty.
Mandatory contributions will finance core activities and administrative costs.
Mandatory Messenger upgrades are nothing new.
Mandatory activities in laboratory require active participation, relational skills, full individual involvement.
Mandatory three-day sentences for all repeat graffiti thugs.
Mandatory psych evaluations for the entire agency.
But then, basically, it becomes Mandatory to have a car.
Next law: Mandatory bow ties on all dogs.
Mandatory vaccination of animals is less effective in rural areas.
One of the models implemented is Mandatory Access Control model.
Mandatory departure cleaning fee: 100 €
Section II Mandatory public offers to buy Article 105 General provisions 1.

Alternatives:

compulsory
required
obligatory
necessary
essential

The word 'obligatory' is correct and commonly used in English to describe something that is required by rule or law.

"obligatory"

It is used to indicate that something is mandatory or required, often due to a rule, law, or regulation.

Examples:

Wearing a seatbelt is obligatory in this vehicle.
The completion of the training program is obligatory for certification.
It is obligatory to follow the safety guidelines in the laboratory.
Attendance at the event is obligatory for all members.
The payment of taxes is obligatory for all citizens.

Alternatives:

mandatory
compulsory
required
necessary
essential

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Mandatory vs obligatory

"Mandatory"

"obligatory"

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