Reluctant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
reluctant
[rษชหlสktษnt ]
Definitions
feeling
Unwilling and hesitant; disinclined.
Synonyms
averse, disinclined, hesitant, resistant, unwilling.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reluctant |
Used when someone is not eager or is somewhat unwilling to do something, usually due to uncertainty or lack of enthusiasm.
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| hesitant |
Used when someone is unsure or pauses before making a decision, often due to uncertainty or doubt.
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| unwilling |
Used when someone is firm in their refusal or has a strong lack of desire to do something.
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| averse |
Used to describe a strong dislike or opposition to something. Usually paired with 'to' (averse to).
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| resistant |
Used when someone actively opposes or strives against something. Often used in a stronger sense than 'reluctant'.
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| disinclined |
Used when someone has a mild or moderate lack of willingness or enthusiasm for something.
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Examples of usage
- He seemed reluctant to discuss the matter further.
- She was reluctant to accept the offer.
to do something
Not eager or willing to do something.
Synonyms
averse, disinclined, hesitant, resistant, unwilling.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reluctant |
Best used when someone is not eager or shows hesitation due to some reservations but may eventually participate if necessary.
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| unwilling |
Used when someone is firmly against doing something, showing a strong lack of willingness.
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| hesitant |
Used when someone is unsure or uncertain about doing something, often needing more time to decide.
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| averse |
Applicable when someone has a strong dislike or opposition towards something, often used in formal contexts.
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| disinclined |
Used when someone slightly lacks interest or is not inclined towards doing something, typically in a mild sense.
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| resistant |
This word highlights opposition due to unwillingness to accept or comply, indicating a stronger stance against something.
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Examples of usage
- She was reluctant to admit her mistake.
- He was reluctant to take on the new responsibility.
to change or agree
Showing doubt or unwillingness, especially about something that may be disagreeable or cause problems.
Synonyms
averse, disinclined, hesitant, resistant, unwilling.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reluctant |
When someone is unwilling to do something but might do it with convincing or pressure. Often implies a mild resistance.
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| hesitant |
When someone is unsure or uncertain about doing something, often because of doubt or fear. Indicates a pause or delay.
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| unwilling |
When someone firmly does not want to do something. It implies strong refusal or persistence not to act.
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| averse |
When someone has a strong dislike or opposition to something. Typically formal and often used to describe a deep-seated feeling.
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| disinclined |
When someone has a mild preference not to do something. It suggests a gentle unwillingness, without strong feelings.
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| resistant |
When someone actively opposes or fights against something. Often indicates strong opposition.
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Examples of usage
- He was reluctant to change his mind.
- She was reluctant to agree to the terms.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often feel reluctant when faced with a task that seems daunting or uncomfortable, due to fear of failure.
- Reluctance can trigger a stress response, which may lead to procrastination as a coping mechanism.
Literature
- Reluctance is a common theme in literature, often used to illustrate character development, where a reluctant hero must overcome their hesitations.
- Famous works, such as 'The Hobbit,' feature characters who are reluctant to embark on adventures but grow and learn through their experiences.
Pop Culture
- In many films, the reluctant hero trope is popular; characters resist their calling only to later embrace their destiny, such as in 'Spider-Man.'
- Songs often capture feelings of reluctance, like when someone is afraid to fall in love, featuring lyrics that express hesitation and doubt.
Communication
- When people are reluctant to express their opinions in discussions, it can lead to misunderstandings or conflicts.
- Non-verbal cues, such as body language, can often signify a person's reluctance, even if they donโt voice their hesitations.
Origin of 'reluctant'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'reluctari,' which means 'to struggle against' or 'to resist.'
- It entered the English language in the late 15th century, reflecting a sense of hesitance or unwillingness.
The word 'reluctant' originated from the Latin word 'reluctant-' (stem of reluctans), present participle of reluctari meaning 'to struggle against'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. Over time, 'reluctant' has retained its meaning of being unwilling or hesitant to do something.