Inklingo

How to Say "obligation" in Spanish

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obligación

nounA2general
Use 'obligación' when referring to a general duty, requirement, or legal or moral imperative that must be fulfilled.

Examples

Es mi obligación ayudar a mi familia.

It is my obligation to help my family.

compromiso

kom-proh-MEE-soh/kom.pɾoˈmi.so/

nounA2general
Choose 'compromiso' when the obligation involves a personal commitment, a promise, or a dedication to a task or relationship.
A person carefully watering a small, vibrant green sapling planted in fertile ground, symbolizing dedication and commitment to growth.

Examples

Tengo el compromiso de terminar este proyecto a tiempo.

I have the commitment to finish this project on time.

Mi compromiso con este trabajo es total.

My commitment to this job is total.

Lo siento, no puedo ir, tengo un compromiso familiar esta noche.

I'm sorry, I can't go, I have a family obligation tonight.

Adquirimos el compromiso de reducir los residuos plásticos.

We took on the commitment to reduce plastic waste.

Using 'con' for commitment

When expressing commitment to something, Spanish often uses the preposition 'con' (with) instead of 'a' (to): 'Mi compromiso con la causa'.

Confusing 'Compromiso' and 'Compromising'

Mistake: “Using 'compromiso' to mean 'embarrassment' or 'awkward situation'.”

Correction: Use 'vergüenza' or 'situación incómoda' instead. 'Compromiso' is strictly about duty or promise.

deuda

DEY-dah/ˈdeu̯.ða/

nounB2general
Use 'deuda' when you want to express a moral duty or a debt of gratitude towards someone.
A fox pulls a rabbit up a hill, and the rabbit immediately offers the fox an apple, illustrating a debt of gratitude or obligation.

Examples

Siento una gran deuda con ella por su apoyo incondicional.

I feel a great debt to her for her unconditional support.

Siento una deuda de gratitud hacia mis maestros.

I feel a debt of gratitude toward my teachers.

La vida me ha dado tanto que estoy en deuda con ella.

Life has given me so much that I am indebted to it.

Obligación vs. Compromiso

Learners often confuse 'obligación' and 'compromiso'. Remember that 'obligación' is typically a more external or formal requirement, like a law or a rule. 'Compromiso' is more about a personal promise or dedication you've made to something or someone.

Related Translations

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