What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
loath
Example
I am loath to attend the party since I don't know anyone there. [loath: adjective]
Example
She was loath to admit her mistake in front of her colleagues. [loath: adjective]
unwilling
Example
He was unwilling to help me with my project. [unwilling: adjective]
Example
She was unwilling to compromise on the issue. [unwilling: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unwilling is more commonly used than loath in everyday language. Unwilling is a more recent word with Latin roots and is versatile enough to be used in various contexts, while loath is an older word with Germanic roots and is typically used in more formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between loath and unwilling?
Unwilling is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while loath is typically used in more formal settings and has a more negative connotation.
