Synonym Chooser

How is the word reluctant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of reluctant are averse, disinclined, hesitant, and loath. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

In what contexts can averse take the place of reluctant?

While the synonyms averse and reluctant are close in meaning, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work
not averse to an occasional drink

Where would disinclined be a reasonable alternative to reluctant?

The words disinclined and reluctant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again
disinclined for reading

When could hesitant be used to replace reluctant?

Although the words hesitant and reluctant have much in common, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When is it sensible to use loath instead of reluctant?

The meanings of loath and reluctant largely overlap; however, loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reluctant Graphic novel Swat Man, about a crooked cop turned reluctant superhero, is being adapted to the big screen as an action-comedy. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 29 May 2025 Some of the Broncos’ best teams created fear in the middle of the field, leaving a trail of bug eyes and gator arms from reluctant receivers. Troy Renck, Denver Post, 29 May 2025 While reluctant to leave his family and friends, he’s applied to faculty positions in Canada and France. Christina Larson, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2025 Even if Merz—whose coalition partner, the Social Democrats, is notoriously reluctant to fully commit to defense—can’t keep all of his promises, Germany will be a different kind of military player within a few years. Ian Bremmer, Time, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for reluctant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reluctant
hesitant
Adjective
  • But some people may be hesitant about having any of their activities tracked to benefit a multi-trillion-dollar conglomerate.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 1 June 2025
  • In the meantime, businesses are left in the murky waters — hesitant to make more or ship more, unsure where to build factories or how high to raise prices.
    Alina Selyukh, NPR, 30 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Reluctant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reluctant. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on reluctant

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