Follow Us on
Followed orders (7) - Crossword Clue
Answer: OBLIGED
Understanding "Obliged" in Crossword Puzzles
- Obliged is a seven-letter word meaning "compelled to follow orders or bound by duty."
- In crossword puzzles, this answer appears when clues reference being required to do something, following commands, or feeling morally or socially bound to act.
- The word derives from the Latin "obligare," meaning to bind or tie, and commonly appears in phrases like "much obliged" (expressing gratitude) or "legally obliged" (required by law).
Why "Obliged" Fits "Followed Orders"
- The connection between "obliged" and "followed orders" lies in the concept of compliance and duty.
- When someone is obliged to do something, they're under an obligation whether moral, legal, social, or professional to carry out specific actions.
- Following orders represents one manifestation of being obliged, particularly in military, workplace, or hierarchical contexts where commands create binding expectations.
- Crossword constructors favor "obliged" because it elegantly captures multiple related meanings: compelled, required, bound, indebted, or constrained.
- The word's versatility makes it suitable for clues ranging from formal ("Legally required") to casual ("Had to, so to speak").
Tips for Solving "Followed Orders" Clues
- Count the letters first - With 7 letters, "obliged" fits perfectly, eliminating longer alternatives like "compelled" or "beholden"
- Look for crossing letters - The double "B" in "obliged" is distinctive; if you have a "B" in position 2, you're likely on track
- Consider context - Military-themed puzzles often use order-following terminology; business or legal themes might emphasize obligation
- Check verb tense - "Obliged" works as past tense, while "oblige" (6 letters) won't fit a 7-letter space
- Think synonyms - If stuck, mentally list words meaning "had to" or "required" until the letter count matches
Followed orders (7) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is "obliged" only used in formal contexts?
A: No, "obliged" appears in both formal ("legally obliged") and informal settings ("much obliged" as a thank-you). In crosswords, it bridges multiple difficulty levels.
Q: What's the difference between "obliged" and "obligated"?
A: They're nearly synonymous, but "obliged" (7 letters) often carries a social or moral connotation, while "obligated" (9 letters) leans more legal or contractual. For crosswords, letter count determines which works.
Q: Can "obliged" mean grateful?
A: Yes! "Much obliged" is a polite expression of thanks, though this meaning appears less frequently in crossword clues about following orders.
Q: Are there military-specific alternatives?
A: "Obeyed" (6 letters) is more directly military but too short. "Obliged" captures the duty aspect while fitting the 7-letter requirement.
Q: How often does "obliged" appear in crosswords?
A: Moderately common—its useful letter pattern (O-B-L-I-G-E-D) with common vowels and consonants makes it a constructor favorite for mid-week puzzles.
