duty
/ˈduːti/A moral or legal obligation to do something, often imposed by law, custom, or personal principle.
Citizens have a duty to obey the law.
Employees have a duty to follow company policies.
In legal contexts, 'duty' often refers to a specific obligation under the law, such as a duty of care in tort law.
A task or responsibility assigned to someone, often in a professional or military context.
The soldier performed his duty with honor.
The nurse was on duty all night.
In military contexts, 'duty' refers to assigned tasks or shifts.
A tax or fee imposed by a government on imports, exports, or other transactions.
The government imposed a duty on imported goods.
Customs duties vary by country.
This meaning is less common in everyday usage.
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💡Pro Tip
Legal vs. General Use
In legal contexts, 'duty' often refers to a specific obligation under the law, while in general usage, it can refer to any responsibility or task.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'duty' can vary significantly depending on the context, so always consider the field or domain in which it is used.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'dutee,' from Old French 'deu,' from Latin 'debitum,' meaning 'what is owed.'
📝Usage Notes
The word 'duty' can have different connotations depending on the context. In legal contexts, it often refers to a formal obligation, while in everyday language, it can refer to a general responsibility.