reluctant

[ri-luhk-tuhnt] / rɪˈlʌk tənt /

ADJECTIVE

unenthusiastic, unwilling

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid averse cautious circumspect hesitant loath shy slow squeamish uncertain wary

WEAK

backward calculating chary demurring diffident discouraged disheartened disinclined grudging hanging back hesitating indisposed involuntary laggard opposed queasy recalcitrant remiss slack tardy uneager

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bold careless certain definite heedless incautious indiscreet rash ready sure uncareful willing

WEAK

anxious eager enthusiastic

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.

Firms have been slow to hire but reluctant to fire.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Even so, drawing in local figures has helped to break the "spiral of silence" some Fidesz-dominated rural communities, where opposition supporters previously felt isolated or reluctant to express their views, Zsiga added.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

The recent single 2Sided depicts a night where Parks was reluctant to leave the house; only finding motivation in the chance she'd bump into her crush.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

And with gasoline prices now surging, consumers may be even more reluctant to make a purchase.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

At last, reluctant to lower my legs, I climbed down from my cot and set about the chore.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

reluctant

Example Sentences

Related Words