obliegt

Obliegt is a Dutch verb used in formal and legal language to express that a duty or obligation rests with a particular person or entity. In essence, something obliegt to someone when that person or organization is the one responsible for ensuring a task is completed or a result is achieved. The term signals a binding responsibility rather than a discretionary choice.

Etymology and synonyms: the verb derives from the same root as obligate and is related to the noun obligatie (obligation). It is part of a family of terms in Dutch that describe duty, responsibility, and liability. Common everyday substitutes in plain language include phrases like “het is de verantwoordelijkheid van” or “daar ligt de plicht bij.”

Usage and context: obliegt tends to appear in official documents, regulations, and administrative communications. It is used to assign or confirm responsibility within a framework of rules or contracts. In everyday speech, speakers more often use clearer expressions such as “het is de verantwoordelijkheid van” to avoid formality, but obliegt remains a precise term in its appropriate contexts.

Examples:

- Het obliegt aan de notaris om de akte correct op te stellen.

- De toezichthouder stelt vast wat er gecontroleerd moet worden; de uitvoering obliegt aan de opdrachtgever.

Relation and distinctions: obliegt is closely related to concepts like verplichting, verantwoordelijkheid, en zorgplicht. It differs from simply stating that something should be done; it specifies that the obligation is assigned and binding on a particular party within a legal or formal framework.

Notes: While still found in official texts, the use of obliegt can sound archaic or overly formal in everyday language. In common usage, people may prefer direct constructions that explicitly name the responsible party.