Formal and Informal Expressions of reluctant

In different contexts, you can replace 'reluctant' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'disinclined, unwilling' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'iffy, sketchy' is a commonplace synonym.

reluctant: Explore its Definition & Usage

reluctant Definition

unwilling and hesitant; disinclined.

Using reluctant: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reluctant" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He was reluctant to ask for help.
Example
She was reluctant to leave her job.
Example
The company was reluctant to invest in new technology.
Example
The dog was reluctant to enter the water.

reluctant Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for reluctant

Antonyms for reluctant

Phrases with reluctant

be reluctant to do something
to be unwilling or hesitant to do something
Example
I'm reluctant to take on more work right now.
a reluctant hero
a person who is forced to become a hero, but does not want to be one
Example
He became a reluctant hero after saving the child from the burning building.
reluctant agreement
an agreement that is given unwillingly or hesitantly
Example
After much discussion, they came to a reluctant agreement to compromise.

Origins of reluctant

from Latin 're-' meaning 'back' + 'luctari' meaning 'to struggle'

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Summary: reluctant in Brief

The term 'reluctant' [rɪˈlʌktənt] describes a state of being unwilling or hesitant. It can be used to describe people, companies, or animals, as in 'The dog was reluctant to enter the water.' The phrase 'be reluctant to do something' is commonly used to express hesitation or unwillingness, while 'a reluctant hero' refers to someone who is forced into a heroic role. 'Reluctant agreement' describes an agreement given unwillingly or hesitantly.