reluctance
Translation
unwillingness, hesitation
Examples
He showed great reluctance to sign the contract.
He showed great reluctance to sign the contract.
Her reluctance to talk about the past was obvious.
Her reluctance to talk about the past was obvious.
Grammar Patterns
reluctance to do sth. unwillingness to do sth. He felt a reluctance to leave.
with reluctance unwillingly She agreed with some reluctance.
Similar Words
Synonyms: unwillingness, hesitation; Antonyms: willingness, eagerness
Etymology
From Latin 'reluctari' (to struggle against), from 're-' (against) + 'luctari' (to struggle).
Memory Tips
Imagine someone 'struggling against' having to do something, showing they are unwilling.