Synonyms of reluctant

reluctant

adjective

ri-ˈlək-tənt 

as in hesitant

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 & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Synonym Chooser

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of reluctant

The trend could be employers reluctant to shed workers due in part to concerns the labor market will tighten soon, BNP Paribas economists Britney Jackson and James Egelhof said in a report on Friday. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 1 Aug. 2026

Braham mayor Nate George told the New York Times Friday afternoon that federal and local officials had little doubt about the likely culprit being Iran, but are reluctant to say so publicly. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2026

Before Thursday, the 12-member city council said it had been left in the dark by the Blazers, who have been reluctant to show the scope and depth of the renovation project. — Jason Quick, New York Times, 31 July 2026

The inevitable directorial dance of seduction to lure the reluctant actor to sign on to the project turns into an actual seduction, in ways that prove personally and artistically consequential for both women. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 31 July 2026