Synonyms for

Reluctantly

Verb / rɪˈlʌktʌntli: / Another word for reluctantly — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

with hesitation or unwillingness

Synonyms & similar words

hesitantly unwillingly grudgingly unenthusiastically slowly cautiously carefully doubtfully skeptically uncertainly unconfidently fearfully timidly shyly bashfully coyly

Synonyms by register

Formal

unwillingly grudgingly involuntarily

Informal

begrudgingly dragged kicking and screaming

Literary

hestitantly under duress

Antonyms

willingly eagerly readily cheerfully enthusiastically voluntarily

Common collocations

  • reluctantly agreed
  • reluctantly accepted
  • reluctantly admitted
  • reluctantly followed
  • reluctantly gave
  • reluctantly let
  • reluctantly stepped

Word family

noun reluctance
verb reluct
adjective reluctant
adverb reluctantly

Usage note

Reluctantly describes an action done with hesitation or disinclination. It is often used to convey a sense of being forced or unwilling to do something.

Example sentences

  1. He reluctantly agreed to help.
  2. She reluctantly took the medicine.
  3. He reluctantly said goodbye.
  4. She reluctantly accepted the invitation.
  5. He reluctantly admitted his mistake.

Quotes

  • "I must admit I was reluctantly impressed." - J.K. Rowling
  • "I reluctantly became a Twitter user." - Stephen King
  • "I reluctantly took on the role of Tim Taylor." - Tim Allen

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