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Definitions

unwilling

[uhn-wil-ing] / ʌnˈwɪl ɪŋ /
ADJECTIVE
not in the mood
Synonyms
STRONGEST
afraid averse compelled evasive forced loath reluctant resistant unenthusiastic
WEAK
against against the grain backward begrudging contrary demurring disinclined disobliging grudging hesitating indisposed indocile involuntary laggard malcontent opposed recalcitrant refractory remiss shrinking shy slack slow unaccommodating uncheerful uncooperative uneager uninclined unobliging unready unwishful wayward
Antonyms
STRONGEST
eager enthusiastic ready willing
WEAK
prepared

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They seem to be in disarray and either unable or unwilling to commit to sustained action.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

Mr. Naiden seems unwilling to admit that such funds are applied to purposes he endorses, such as wages, safety and upgrades.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

But they have proved unwilling while the conflict rages.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

However, some GPs said they would be unwilling to prescribe the drugs due to their lack of specialist knowledge.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Several times I bumped into Mami as I walked backwards, unwilling to face the metal bird that would whisk us to our new life.

From "When I Was Puerto Rican" by Esmeralda Santiago