unwilling
gb/ʌnwˈɪlɪŋ/ us/ʌnwˈɪlɪŋ/
B1
English
~ 4600
Senses
0 senses
adjective
B1
state
1
Not wanting to do something
Not wanting to do something or not ready to agree.
Usage pattern:
[someone] is unwilling to [verb]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'unwilling' with 'unable'. 'Unwilling' means you do not want to do something, while 'unable' means you cannot do it.
Synonyms
reluctant (Slightly softer in tone, often suggesting hesitation rather than complete refusal.)
|
loath (More formal or literary, often stronger in expressing dislike or disapproval of the action.)
Antonyms
willing (Direct opposite; describes being ready and agreeable to do something.)
|
eager (Opposite in both readiness and enthusiasm, often implying strong desire.)
Collocations
unwilling participant
|unwilling to help
|unwilling witness
|seem unwilling
|remain unwilling
Themes
emotions
|daily life
|attitudes
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- She was unwilling to discuss her personal life with the press.
- The company is unwilling to make changes to its policy.
- He seemed unwilling to admit his mistake.
- They remained unwilling to compromise on the terms.
- I am unwilling to risk my health for this project.
Learner examples
- I am unwilling to go outside in the rain.
- She is unwilling to eat vegetables.
- He is unwilling to help with the work.
- They are unwilling to change their plan.
Grammar
Dictionary form
unwilling
IPA
GB/ʌnwˈɪlɪŋ/
US/ʌnwˈɪlɪŋ/
Syllables & stress
un - will - ing (3 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (will)
Word forms
Adjective
- Base: unwilling
Word family
Core family
Related words
unwillingness
noun
unwillingly
adverb
Advanced or less common
willful
adjective
willfully
adverb
Expressions
be unwilling to do something
1/bˈi ʌnwˈɪlɪŋ tə dˈu sˈʌmθɪŋ/
fixed phrase
Not wanting to perform an action
To not want to do a certain thing.
Examples
- She is unwilling to speak in public.
- They are unwilling to accept the offer.
remain unwilling
1/ɹɪmˈeɪn ʌnwˈɪlɪŋ/
fixed phrase
Continue refusing or lacking desire
To still not want to do something after some time.
Examples
- Despite the pressure, he remained unwilling to sign the contract.
- They remain unwilling to discuss the issue.