*du·ty/`dutɪ; ˈdjuːti/ n 1 [C,U] something that you have to do because it is right or it is part of your job 职责，义务: The government has a duty to provide education. 政府有义务提供受教育机会。 He was carrying out his official duties as ambassador. 他正在履行大使的职责。 2 be on/off duty a doctor, nurse, police officer etc who is on or off duty, they are either working or not working 〔医生、护士、警察等〕当班/不当班; 值勤/不值勤 3 [C] a tax you pay on something you buy 〔购物所付的〕税