Willingly: meaning, definitions and examples

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willingly

[ˈwɪlɪŋli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in a positive manner

In a way that shows you are happy to do something; with a positive attitude and without reluctance.

Synonyms

eagerly, readily, voluntarily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
willingly	Repeated entry.
voluntarily	Use this word when someone does something out of their own free will, often without any obligation or expectation of reward. He voluntarily cleaned the park She voluntarily stayed late to finish the report
readily	This is suitable when someone does something quickly and without hesitation. She readily agreed to the terms of the contract We readily accepted the invitation
eagerly	This word should be used when someone is very excited or enthusiastic about doing something. The students eagerly awaited the holidays He eagerly started his new job

Examples of usage

She willingly agreed to help out with the project.
He willingly volunteered to stay late and finish the work.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

having the desire to do something

Having a desire to do something; inclined or ready to do something without being forced or compelled.

Synonyms

eager, enthusiastic, keen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
willingly	When someone agrees to do something without hesitation or coercion, generally in a neutral or positive way. She willingly accepted the task assigned to her He willingly donated to the charity
eager	Used when someone is very interested and excited about doing something or looking forward to it. The children were eager to open their presents on Christmas morning She was eager to start her new job
enthusiastic	When someone shows a high level of excitement and positive energy about something. He was enthusiastic about the new project The crowd was enthusiastic during the concert
keen	Indicating a strong desire or intense interest in something, often slightly more formal or serious. She is keen to improve her skills They were keen on learning more about the culture

Examples of usage

A willing participant in the study.
She was a willing listener to his stories.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'willan,' meaning 'to wish' or 'to want', showing a connection to desire.
It has roots in the Proto-Germanic '*wiljon,' which relates to volition, meaning the act of making a choice.

Psychology

Research indicates that people are more motivated when they choose to perform a task willingly, due to intrinsic motivation.
Willingness can boost emotional well-being, reinforcing positive actions and relationships.

Literature

Willingness often appears in classic literature as a trait of heroes who choose to face challenges for love or loyalty.
Shakespeare used characters who acted willingly as a means to highlight their freedom and moral choices.

Pop Culture

The term 'willingly' is frequently found in song lyrics, conveying themes of love and partnership, where individuals act out of desire.
In TV shows, characters often express their willingness to take risks for friends, reinforcing the value of voluntary action.

Translations

Translations of the word "willingly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 de boa vontade

🇮🇳 स्वेच्छा से

🇩🇪 freiwillig

🇮🇩 dengan sukarela

🇺🇦 охоче

🇵🇱 chętnie

🇯🇵 喜んで

🇫🇷 volontiers

🇪🇸 de buena gana

🇹🇷 isteyerek

🇰🇷 기꺼이

🇸🇦 برغبة

🇨🇿 ochotně

🇸🇰 ochotne

🇨🇳 心甘情愿地

🇸🇮 z veseljem

🇮🇸 af fúsum og frjálsum vilja

🇰🇿 қалауымен

🇬🇪 ხალისით

🇦🇿 məmnuniyyətlə

🇲🇽 de buena gana

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,109 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

...
8106 multiplication
8107 desperately
8108 wisely
8109 willingly
8110 ambient
8111 ethanol
8112 drums
...