Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of disinclined are averse, hesitant, loath, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again
disinclined for reading

When might averse be a better fit than disinclined?

The synonyms averse and disinclined are sometimes interchangeable, but averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work
not averse to an occasional drink

When is it sensible to use hesitant instead of disinclined?

Although the words hesitant and disinclined have much in common, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When could loath be used to replace disinclined?

The words loath and disinclined are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

When can reluctant be used instead of disinclined?

While in some cases nearly identical to disinclined, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of disinclined Although no law or official policy banned Jews from leaving Iran, the government was disinclined to issue them passports. Roya Hakakian, The Atlantic, 10 July 2025 Then Nick Willert’s horse started to balk, as though disinclined to engage in the scrum. Will Grant, Outside Online, 11 June 2025 Moscow had upped the intensity of its missile and drone strikes on Ukraine in recent weeks, drawing sharp rebuke from Trump, who is disinclined to overly criticize the Kremlin. Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 June 2025 Trump, who, as president, has repeatedly cast doubt on the idea that the Russians interfered in the election, appears disinclined to use those tools. Susan Hennessey, Foreign Affairs, 16 Oct. 2017 See All Example Sentences for disinclined
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disinclined
Adjective
  • Her own dentist was reluctant to talk to her about it.
    Laura Trujillo, USA Today, 7 Oct. 2025
  • But employers are still reluctant to part with workers given the lessons from the Covid pandemic, when a rash of layoffs in the early stages was followed by the monumental task of refilling those jobs.
    Jeff Cox, CNBC, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Hamilton was at first hesitant about the fundraiser, especially since there are various ones set up for the victims and others.
    Leah Olajide, Freep.com, 3 Oct. 2025
  • However, providers might be hesitant to schedule patients covered by Medicare if the shutdown drags on over a long period of time.
    Simon F. Haeder, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disinclined.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disinclined. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on disinclined

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