Obliging
Adjective
Definition: Willing to do a service or kindness; helpful.
Synonyms: Accommodating, Cooperative, Helpful, Kind, Willing
Antonyms: Unhelpful, Uncooperative, Unwilling
Examples:
- The obliging store clerk assisted the customer in finding the perfect gift.
- Sarah is always obliging and goes out of her way to help others.
Mnemonics:
- Think of someone who is willing to "obligate" themselves to help others.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "obliging" originated from the verb "oblige" which comes from Latin "obligare" meaning "to bind". It entered English in the late 16th century.
Historical Usage:The term has been used to describe individuals who are willing to do favors or provide assistance since its origin.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Obliging nature"
Explanation:Referring to someone's inherent quality of being consistently helpful and accommodating.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "obliging" with "obligatory".
Explanation:"Obliging" implies a willingness to help or be of service, while "obligatory" implies a requirement or necessity. They are not interchangeable and have different meanings.