unwilling

[uhn-wil-ing] / ʌnˈwɪl ɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

not in the mood

Synonyms

STRONGEST

afraid averse compelled evasive forced loath reluctant resistant unenthusiastic

WEAK

against against the grain backward begrudging contrary demurring disinclined disobliging grudging hesitating indisposed indocile involuntary laggard malcontent opposed recalcitrant refractory remiss shrinking shy slack slow unaccommodating uncheerful uncooperative uneager uninclined unobliging unready unwishful wayward

Antonyms

STRONGEST

eager enthusiastic ready willing

WEAK

prepared

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.

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unwilling

While adamant that the tradition would survive, Keller pointed to a "succession problem", with younger generations unwilling to take over a tough family business.

From Barron's ● Jul. 26, 2026

Other China-led multilateral lenders have been unwilling to offer such workarounds.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 14, 2026

“The U.S. government may prove increasingly unwilling to tolerate a prolonged bear market given how central equities have become to Americans’ retirement savings,” Balchunas said in his report, which he shared with MarketWatch.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 11, 2026

The north London club saw off competition from Manchester United, who were unwilling to match the fee agreed by Spurs - which is a guaranteed £85m without add-ons.

From BBC ● Jun. 30, 2026

Rowan would nod and mutter an unwilling answer.

From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda

unwilling

Example Sentences

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