Reluctantly: meaning, definitions and examples
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reluctantly
[rɪˈlʌktəntli ]
Definitions
in a hesitant or unwilling way
If you do something reluctantly, you do it without wanting to and with a lack of enthusiasm.
Synonyms
grudgingly, hesitantly, unwillingly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reluctantly |
This word is appropriate when someone is doing something they do not want to do, but they feel it is necessary or they have no choice.
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| unwillingly |
This word indicates doing something without any desire or willingness, often due to external pressure. It has a slightly stronger negative connotation than 'reluctantly'.
|
| hesitantly |
Use this when someone is unsure or uncertain about doing something, and they proceed with caution or pause. This word does not imply as much unwillingness as the others.
|
| grudgingly |
This term implies a stronger sense of resentment and unwillingness than 'reluctantly'. It often has a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She reluctantly agreed to help him with his project.
- He reluctantly admitted his mistake.
- I reluctantly went to the party even though I didn't feel like socializing.
with hesitation or reservation
Reluctantly can also mean in a way that shows doubt or uncertainty.
Synonyms
doubtfully, skeptically, uncertainly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reluctantly |
This word is used when someone does something they don't really want to do. It indicates hesitation or unwillingness.
|
| doubtfully |
This is used when someone has doubts or is unsure about something. It implies a lack of confidence or certainty.
|
| uncertainly |
This word applies when someone is unsure or indecisive about something. It indicates a lack of sureness and clarity.
|
| skeptically |
Use this when someone is questioning or suspicious about something. It suggests a tendency to disbelieve or be critical.
|
Examples of usage
- She agreed reluctantly, unsure of the consequences.
- He took the job reluctantly, fearing it might not be the right fit for him.
Translations
Translations of the word "reluctantly" in other languages:
🇵🇹 relutantemente
🇮🇳 अनिच्छा से
🇩🇪 widerwillig
🇮🇩 dengan enggan
🇺🇦 неохоче
🇵🇱 niechętnie
🇯🇵 しぶしぶ
🇫🇷 à contrecœur
🇪🇸 a regañadientes
🇹🇷 isteksizce
🇰🇷 마지못해
🇸🇦 على مضض
🇨🇿 neochotně
🇸🇰 neochotne
🇨🇳 不情愿地
🇸🇮 neradovoljno
🇮🇸 treglega
🇰🇿 құлықсыз
🇬🇪 არასასურველად
🇦🇿 istəksizcə
🇲🇽 a regañadientes
Etymology
The word 'reluctantly' originated from the Middle English word 'reluctaunt', which derived from the Latin word 'reluctant-', meaning to struggle against. Over time, the meaning evolved to convey a sense of unwillingness or hesitation. The adverb 'reluctantly' has been in use for centuries, reflecting the common experience of having to do something against one's will or desire.