Meaning & Definition of word "Unwillingness"
Unwillingness
/ˌʌnˈwɪl.ɪŋ.nəs/
noun:
- 1. The quality or state of being reluctant or not inclined to do something.
- Example: Her unwillingness to participate in the discussion surprised everyone.
- 2. A lack of willingness or eagerness to engage in a particular activity or action.
- Example: The team's unwillingness to adapt to new strategies hindered their success.
- 3. A disposition towards avoidance or resistance to undertaking a task or obligation.
- Example: His unwillingness to compromise made the negotiation process difficult.
- 4. The absence of readiness or inclination to act.
- Example: 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
reluctance:
A feeling of not wanting to do something.
aversion:
A strong dislike or disinclination towards something.
disinclination:
A lack of inclination or desire.
Slang Meanings of unwillingness
Meaning: No way
● Example Sentence: When they asked him to jump in, his response was just 'No way!' showing his unwillingness.
Meaning: Check out
● Example Sentence: She said she'd check out the party, but her body language screamed unwillingness.