UNWILLING Synonyms: 39 Similar and Opposite Words

unwilling

adjective

ˌən-ˈwi-liŋ

Definition of unwilling

as in forced

not made or done willingly or by choice unwilling contributions from city employees who felt pressured to do so

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 unwilling Arsenal have made several bids for Tyjon, but Blackburn have been unwilling to sell, which led to a standoff. — James McNicholas, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026 Mensink, meanwhile, is traveling through Europe and North Africa with nearly no money — unwilling to give up his dream of being a travel vlogger. — Mattha Busby, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2026 However, Olivia pulled away, unwilling to ruin their friendship just yet. — Entertainment Weekly, 19 Aug. 2026 Biscuit Bar, a chain with location in the Stockyards, closed all of its locations in December due to landlords unwilling to cooperate during their restructuring process. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for unwilling

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unwilling

Adjective

The sparkle in her eyes had dulled and her smile seemed forced.

— Cheyenne Roundtree, Rolling Stone, 20 Aug. 2026
One thing that makes Rodriguez such a great fit in what the Dolphins want to do defensively is his propensity to punch the ball out for forced fumbles.

— David Furones, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of forced

Adjective

That's particularly relevant for Americans accustomed to booking spontaneous Europe trips.

— Bailey Berg, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026
Later, the Moon opposes Uranus in your 5th House of Creativity and Play, bringing a spontaneous idea, romantic spark, or change in personal plans.

— Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 20 Aug. 2026

Definition of spontaneous

Adjective

Summary Disney's renowned guest experiences are intentionally crafted, not accidental, as exemplified by Cheryl Christensen's 37-year career.

— Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026
The Buffalo Bills are giving defensive tackle Ed Oliver support and space following the accidental death of his 2-year-old son.

— ABC News, ABC News, 22 Aug. 2026

Definition of accidental

Adjective

Human rights groups have accused Iranian authorities of denying defendants due process, relying on coerced confessions and carrying out executions after unfair trials.

— Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 29 July 2026
Such coerced displacement did not — and could not — extinguish rights guaranteed by a still-valid agreement.

— Shaun Chapoose, Denver Post, 20 May 2026

Definition of coerced

Browse Nearby Words

unwilled

unwilling

unwillingly

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“Unwilling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unwilling. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of unwilling

adjective

Example Sentences

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Cite this Entry

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