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 In Jamaica, the government made a special appeal to residents of Port Royal in the capital, who are usually reluctant to evacuate their homes despite their proximity to the sea. Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2025 And managers are reluctant to crack down too intensively. Peter Bart, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2025 There are a few reasons why workers may be reluctant to take time off, according to FlexJobs career expert Keith Spencer. Sophie Caldwell, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2025 King Charles was allegedly reluctant to take this step for a long time. Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for reluctant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reluctant
hesitant
Adjective
  • Historically, workers have been hesitant about sharing their salaries with other employees, but a shift toward the practice has sparked greater accountability at companies.
    Suzanne Blake, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
  • The brand does not advertise itself as being additive-free tequila in its marketing materials, something that admittedly more brands are hesitant to do because the CRT, Mexico’s tequila governing authority, has cracked down upon the practice.
    Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 23 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Reluctant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reluctant. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on reluctant

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