Unwillingness

/ˌʌnˈwɪl.ɪŋ.nəs/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The quality or state of being reluctant or not inclined to do something.
Her unwillingness to participate in the discussion surprised everyone.
A lack of willingness or eagerness to engage in a particular activity or action.
The team's unwillingness to adapt to new strategies hindered their success.
A disposition towards avoidance or resistance to undertaking a task or obligation.
His unwillingness to compromise made the negotiation process difficult.
The absence of readiness or inclination to act.
Despite the challenges ahead, their unwillingness to give up was commendable.

Etymology

Derived from 'unwilling', meaning not inclined to do something, plus the suffix '-ness' which denotes a state or condition.

Common Phrases and Expressions

unwilling participant:
Someone who participates in an activity reluctantly.
unwilling worker:
An employee who is resistant or hesitant about completing tasks.
unwilling volunteer:
A person who does not want to volunteer for a task or project.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

No way
When they asked him to jump in, his response was just 'No way!' showing his unwillingness.
Check out
She said she'd check out the party, but her body language screamed unwillingness.