Unwillingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
unwillingly
[สnหwษชlษชลli ]
Definition
adverb
In an unwilling manner; without wanting or being willing to do something.
Synonyms
grudgingly, involuntarily, reluctantly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
unwillingly |
When someone does something without wanting to, feeling forced or obligated.
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reluctantly |
When someone does something with hesitance or minimal willingness, often because they don't want to but feel they have no other choice.
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grudgingly |
When someone does something with resentment or annoyance, or when they do something but do not want to show they approve of it.
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involuntarily |
When someone does something without control over their actions, usually due to a reflex or an automatic response; often implies an uncontrollable action.
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Examples of usage
- He unwillingly agreed to help with the project.
- She unwilingly attended the meeting.
- They unwilingly followed the rules.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often act unwillingly due to external pressures, highlighting how social situations can impact personal choices.
- This concept is often studied in behavioral psychology to understand compliance and consent.
- Feelings of obligation or fear can make someone act unwillingly, affecting their emotional well-being.
Literature
- In many stories, characters are faced with actions they must perform unwillingly, leading to conflicts and character growth.
- Famous authors, like Shakespeare, explored themes of reluctance and duty, showing the complex nature of human emotions.
- The concept of being unwillingly involved is prominently featured in tragic narratives, highlighting moral dilemmas.
Pop Culture
- Movie plots often revolve around protagonists who are reluctantly drawn into adventures, such as 'The Hobbit'.
- Reality TV showcases people who may engage in activities theyโre not keen on for the sake of entertainment.
- In songs, themes of unwillingness are common, expressing the struggle between desire and obligation.
Origin of 'unwillingly'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'unwillig', meaning 'not willing'.
- It combines the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', with 'willing', which means to be ready or eager.
- This term has been used in English literature since the late 14th century.
The word 'unwillingly' is derived from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'willingly', which originated from the Old English term 'willan' meaning 'to wish or desire'. Over time, 'willingly' evolved to mean 'in a willing manner', and the addition of the prefix 'un-' created the opposite meaning of 'in an unwilling manner'.
See also: unwilling, willingness.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #20,341, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 20338 rustle
- 20339 disaffected
- 20340 fingered
- 20341 unwillingly
- 20342 dampness
- 20343 weft
- 20344 sanatorium
- ...