Reluctance: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone doesn't want to do something but may do it eventually.

• She showed reluctance to attend the meeting but eventually agreed

Appropriate when someone is briefly pausing before doing something due to uncertainty or fear.

• Tom's hesitation to speak in public was understandable given his shyness

Best used to describe a strong and clear refusal to do something.

• Her unwillingness to participate in the project was evident from her vocal objections

Often used in the context of opposition or pushback, sometimes in a more forceful manner.

• There was significant resistance from the community against the new policy

When someone is unwilling to do something but not completely opposed to it. There might be some internal conflict or doubt.

• She showed reluctance to accept the job offer because it required moving to another city.
• His reluctance to speak in front of a crowd was evident from his anxious demeanor.

Used when someone pauses before doing something, suggesting they are unsure or nervous.

• There was a moment of hesitation before she agreed to help with the project.
• His hesitation to answer the question made everyone suspect he was hiding something.

Describes a more active effort to oppose or push back against something, often involving some degree of protest or conflict.

• There was strong resistance from the employees against the new company policy.
• His resistance to change has been a major hurdle in implementing the new system.

When someone clearly and definitively says 'no' to something. It indicates a firm decision against doing something.

• Her refusal to attend the meeting caused a lot of confusion.
• The refusal of the proposal surprised everyone in the room.