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.

I built an AI “person” out of money who could work for me when I am unable or unwilling to work.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

Shipowners are unwilling to risk crossing the strait, leading to hundreds of stranded ships and millions of barrels of oil cut off.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

Bynum says there’s a big sacrifice that many teenagers are unwilling to accept.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2026

"No-one understands what our life is like," says one man who is unwilling to be named.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2026

The cat stalked behind, stomach empty and feet wet, but unwilling to let Alyce go on without him.

From "The Midwife's Apprentice" by Karen Cushman

unwilling

Example Sentences

Related Words