/ˌɒblɪˈgeɪʃn ||; ˌɑbləˈgeʃən/noun [C,U] (an) obligation (to sb) (to do sth) the state of having to do sth because it is a law or duty, or because you have promised 基于法律、职责或承诺应做的事；义务；责任: Unfortunately the shop is under no obligationto give you your money back. 遗憾的是，那家商店没有义务把钱退还给你。We have an obligation to help people who are in need. 我们有责任帮助那些有困难的人。By refusing to examine the animal, the vet failed to fulfil his professional obligations. 兽医不愿意给那动物进行检查，因而没有尽到职责。