Obligation vs. requirement: what’s the difference?
The short answer
An obligation often has a moral, legal, or social aspect, implying a duty or responsibility that might not always be written or enforced by rules. A requirement is often seen as a condition that must be met, typically defined by rules, standards, or specific criteria.
What they have in common
Both obligation and requirement refer to something that must be done. They both imply a necessity or duty that a person or entity is bound to fulfill.
Examples
obligation
- He felt a strong obligation to help his family during the crisis.
- There is a legal obligation to report any large financial transactions.
- She considered it an obligation to attend the meeting, although she didn’t want to.
requirement
- A degree in computer science is a requirement for the job.
- Meeting the safety standards is a requirement for product approval.
- There are strict requirements for obtaining a driver’s license.
Which one is more common?
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