unwilling
/ˌʌnˈwɪlɪŋ/adjective★Intermediate
general
Reluctant or hesitant to do something; lacking willingness.
He was unwilling to share his personal information.
He was hesitant or reluctant to provide his personal details.
The company was unwilling to negotiate the terms.
The company refused or hesitated to discuss the conditions.
💡
Often used to describe a lack of enthusiasm or resistance to an action or request.
Collocations
unwilling to admitreluctant to acknowledgeunwilling participantsomeone who is forced or reluctant to take part
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
unwillinglyadverb
in a reluctant or hesitant manner
💡Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use 'unwilling' to describe a lack of enthusiasm or resistance, not necessarily outright refusal.
⚡Gold Rule
Grammar Rule
'Unwilling' is typically followed by 'to' + verb (e.g., unwilling to participate).
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'unwillyng', from 'un-' (not) + 'willyng' (willing).
📝Usage Notes
Often used to describe a passive resistance or lack of enthusiasm rather than outright refusal.
Word Breakdown
un-
not
prefixwilling
ready or eager
rootEnglish Dictionary