Synonyms of loath

loath

adjective

ˈlōth 

variants also loth or lothe

as in reluctant

slow to begin or proceed with a course of action because of doubts or uncertainty

I was loath to accept his claim of having climbed Mount Everest

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reluctant
• hesitant
• unwilling
• reticent
• disinclined
• cagey
• cagy
• indisposed
• averse
• dubious
• ambivalent
• unenthusiastic
• unsure
• conflicted
• uncertain
• skeptical
• uneager
• timid
• questioning
• irresolute
• wobbly
• faltering
• infirm
• undecided
• indecisive
• doubtful
• wabbly
• halting
• vacillating
• shy
• fainthearted

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inclined
• eager
• glad
• happy
• willing
• keen
• ready
• enthusiastic
• disposed
• decided
• certain
• sure
• determined
• resolute
• unquestioning

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of loath are averse, disinclined, hesitant, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

Where would averse be a reasonable alternative to loath?

In some situations, the words averse and loath are roughly equivalent. However, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work

not averse to an occasional drink

When could disinclined be used to replace loath?

The synonyms disinclined and loath are sometimes interchangeable, but disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again

disinclined for reading

In what contexts can hesitant take the place of loath?

While in some cases nearly identical to loath, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When is it sensible to use reluctant instead of loath?

While the synonyms reluctant and loath are close in meaning, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of loath

However, most countries are loath to encourage secessionist movements. —Kate Bartlett, Christian Science Monitor, 12 June 2025

The Biden administration assumed that this new regional conflict would strengthen the case for an Israel–Gulf state security alliance, but the Gulf states were loath to be dragged into that conflict. —Vali Nasr, Foreign Affairs, 10 June 2025

Athletes and coaches are loath to admit even a shred of positive in any defeat, let alone in the immediate aftermath, but if ever the moral victory existed, can’t Inter Miami claim some of that even after a 4-0 defeat? —Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 29 June 2025

Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down. —Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

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