Thesaurus

reluctant

Q: How is the word 'reluctant' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of reluctant are averse , disinclined , hesitant , and loath . While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness. // a reluctant witness

Q: In what contexts can 'averse' take the place of 'reluctant'?

While the synonyms averse and reluctant are close in meaning, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance. // averse to hard work // not averse to an occasional drink

Q: Where would 'disinclined' be a reasonable alternative to 'reluctant'?

The words disinclined and reluctant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination. // disinclined to move again // disinclined for reading

Q: When could 'hesitant' be used to replace 'reluctant'?

Although the words hesitant and reluctant have much in common, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty. // hesitant about asking for a date

Q: When is it sensible to use 'loath' instead of 'reluctant'?

The meanings of loath and reluctant largely overlap; however, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking. // seems loath to trust anyone

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Synonyms & Antonyms of reluctant

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

I'm reluctant to let you borrow my vintage CDs since you never give back anything I lend you

Synonyms for reluctant

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Antonyms for reluctant

Frequently Asked Questions About reluctant

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

Some common synonyms of reluctant are averse, disinclined, hesitant, and loath. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

In what contexts can averse take the place of reluctant?

While the synonyms averse and reluctant are close in meaning, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work

not averse to an occasional drink

Where would disinclined be a reasonable alternative to reluctant?

The words disinclined and reluctant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again

disinclined for reading

When could hesitant be used to replace reluctant?

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

hesitant about asking for a date

When is it sensible to use loath instead of reluctant?

The meanings of loath and reluctant largely overlap; however, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone