A new word: oblige

1

if you are obliged to do something, you have to do it because the situation, the law, a duty etc makes it necessary. 

to force or require (someone or something) to do something because of a law or rule or because it is necessary.

oblige somebody to do something

The minister was obliged to report at least once every six months.

Circumstances had obliged him to sell the business.

feel obliged to do something (=feel that you have a duty to do something)

Many parents feel obliged to pay for at least part of the wedding.

Do not use oblige when you are talking about a person making someone do something they do not want to do. Use force or make: They made me (NOT obliged me to) stay behind after school.

GRAMMAR Oblige is often passive in this meaning.

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In everyday English, people usually say that you have to do something rather than are obliged to do something:

· He had to sell the business.

The law obliges the government to release certain documents to the public.

Her job obliges her to work overtime and on weekends.

- usually used as (be) obliged

The government is obliged [=required, obligated] by law to release certain documents to the public.

2

to do something that someone has asked you to do. 

to do something that someone has asked you to do : to do a favor for (someone).

It’s always a good idea to oblige important clients.

happy/glad/ready etc to oblige

If you need a ride home, I’d be happy to oblige.

She's always ready to oblige her friends.

“Thank you for your help.” “I'm happy/glad to oblige.”

They asked for food and he obliged with soup and sandwiches.

3 I’d be obliged if (spoken)

used to make a polite request.

I’d be obliged if you’d treat this matter as strictly confidential.

4

(I’m) much obliged (to you) (spoken, old-fashioned)    

used to thank someone very politely.