What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reluctant
Example
He was reluctant to ask for help. [reluctant: adjective]
Example
She reluctantly agreed to attend the party. [reluctantly: adverb]
resistant
Example
The material is resistant to water damage. [resistant: adjective]
Example
He was resistant to the new policy changes. [resistant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Resistant is more commonly used than reluctant in everyday language. Resistant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while reluctant is less common and refers to a specific type of reluctance or opposition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reluctant and resistant?
Both reluctant and resistant can be used in formal and informal contexts, but resistant is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
