reluctance

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.

So you can understand, if not necessarily agree with, their reluctance to drop out and call it a day, in the hope that, just maybe, that proverbial bolt of lightning will strike.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Robinson believes "football snobbery" is behind some of the reluctance to embrace set-pieces as a potential game-changer.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Jeffrey Lewis, an arms-control expert at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies, said Iran has long had the technical capability to develop intermediate-range missiles but was held back by a political reluctance to use it.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

However, analysts say that energy needs and a reluctance to be drawn into a conflict with Washington will prevent Beijing from converting strong rhetoric into concrete action.

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

Maybe it would help the boy understand Roy’s reluctance to participate, even though he sympathized with the owl crusade.

From "Hoot" by Carl Hiaasen