Forcer vs. obliger
While both 'forcer' and 'obliger' in French relate to compelling someone to do something, they have subtle differences in usage and intensity.
Forcer
'Forcer' implies a stronger, more physical or direct form of compulsion, often against someone's will or natural inclination.
Le voleur a forcé la serrure pour entrer dans la maison.
(The thief forced the lock to enter the house.)
Ne me force pas à prendre une décision maintenant.
(Don't force me to make a decision now.)
La police a forcé le suspect à sortir de sa voiture.
(The police forced the suspect to get out of his car.)
Obliger
'Obliger' suggests a more moral, social, or legal obligation, often with less physical force but more emphasis on duty or necessity.
La loi oblige les conducteurs à porter une ceinture de sécurité.
(The law obliges drivers to wear a seatbelt.)
Je me sens obligé de vous remercier pour votre aide.
(I feel obliged to thank you for your help.)
Son contrat l'oblige à travailler les weekends.
(His contract obliges him to work on weekends.)
Summary
While 'forcer' typically involves physical or direct compulsion, often against one's will, 'obliger' implies a sense of duty or necessity arising from moral, social, or legal contexts. 'Forcer' is generally stronger and more immediate, while 'obliger' can be more subtle and related to longer-term obligations.