Definition: The term "unobligative" in communication refers to a situation where one person or group is not required to do something, nor does anyone else have to follow their instructions. In other words, it's a situation where the other party doesn't need to perform an action in order for the first party to fulfill their obligations. For example, if someone asks you to write a report but doesn't give you any specific instructions on how to do so, they are not obligated to do anything else