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Willingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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?

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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?

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'willingly'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'willingly' originated from the Middle English word 'willingli', which is a combination of 'willing' and the suffix '-li'. The term has been in use since the 14th century to describe actions done with readiness and without reluctance. Over time, the word has retained its meaning of voluntary action and positive attitude.

See also: unwillingness, wilful, will, willful, willing, willow, willpower.

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.