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willing

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verb

present participle of will

Synonym Chooser

How is the word willing different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of willing are deliberate, intentional, and voluntary. While all these words mean "done or brought about of one's own will," willing implies a readiness and eagerness to accede to or anticipate the wishes of another.

willing obedience

When is deliberate a more appropriate choice than willing?

The words deliberate and willing are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deliberate implies full consciousness of the nature of one's act and its consequences.

deliberate acts of sabotage

When is it sensible to use intentional instead of willing?

The words intentional and willing can be used in similar contexts, but intentional stresses an awareness of an end to be achieved.

the intentional concealment of vital information

When could voluntary be used to replace willing?

While in some cases nearly identical to willing, voluntary implies freedom and spontaneity of choice or action without external compulsion.

a voluntary confession

Thesaurus Entries Near willing

Cite this Entry

“Willing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/willing. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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