Learn how to use the comparative “more reluctant” and superlative “most reluctant” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “reluctant”?

The comparative form of “reluctant” is “more reluctant”.

Example

She was more reluctant to try the new food than her sister.

Example

He is more reluctant to ask for help than his colleagues.

What is the superlative form of “reluctant”?

The superlative form of “reluctant” is “most reluctant”.

Example

Among all the students, she is the most reluctant to participate in group activities.

Example

He was the most reluctant to attend the meeting.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are used with "reluctant" to form the comparatives and superlatives. The forms "more reluctant" and "most reluctant" are commonly used to indicate a higher degree of unwillingness.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Reluctant" follows the regular pattern of using "more" and "most" for forming comparatives and superlatives.

Expressions with similar meanings to “more reluctant”

less willing

Used to describe someone who is not as eager or inclined to do something.

Example

He is less willing to take on extra responsibilities.

hesitant

Used to indicate someone who is unsure or uncertain about doing something.

Example

She was hesitant to join the dance class.

Expressions with similar meanings to “most reluctant”

least willing

Used to describe someone who is the least eager or inclined to do something.

Example

He is the least willing to volunteer for extra tasks.

most hesitant

Used to indicate someone who is the most unsure or uncertain about doing something.

Example

She was the most hesitant to speak in public.

Using than with comparative “more reluctant”

When using the comparative form "more reluctant" to compare two things, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "She was more reluctant to try the new food than her sister." Here, "than" is used to show that the level of unwillingness in "she" is higher than the level of unwillingness in "her sister."

How can I use this expression in context?

“more reluctant” and “most reluctant” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Decisions

  He was more reluctant to make a decision without proper information.

  He was more reluctant to make a decision without proper information.

• 2. Actions

  She was the most reluctant to apologize for her mistake.

  She was the most reluctant to apologize for her mistake.

• 3. Participation

  They were more reluctant to join the team due to lack of interest.

  They were more reluctant to join the team due to lack of interest.

• 4. Commitment

  He was the most reluctant to commit to a long-term relationship.

  He was the most reluctant to commit to a long-term relationship.

Related idioms and phrases

Drag one's feet

To delay or be slow in taking action or making a decision.

Example

He has been dragging his feet on signing the contract.

Kick up a fuss

To protest or complain loudly and vehemently about something.

Example

She kicked up a fuss when she found out about the change in plans.