Reluctant: hesitation before acting

The idea

Use reluctant to before a verb, as in reluctant to speak. It can also come before a noun, as in reluctant agreement.

Examples

• Maya was reluctant to share the news before the meeting.
• The neighbors were reluctant to sell their old house.
• After some discussion, the team gave reluctant approval to the plan.
• I am reluctant to promise a date until we know more.
• A reluctant volunteer carried the heavy boxes upstairs.
• Although reluctant at first, Sam joined the dance.

Watch out

Being reluctant does not mean a person definitely refuses; they may act despite hesitation.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the best word. The editor was ___ to publish the claim without evidence. (reluctant / eager)

   Show answer or example answer

   reluctant

   Reluctant fits because the editor hesitates to publish without evidence.

2. Choose the best word. The driver is reluctant ___ travel in the storm. (to / for)

   Show answer or example answer

   to

   To introduces the action the driver hesitates to take.

3. Choose the best word. A reluctant guest accepts an invitation. Is acceptance possible? (yes / no)

   Show answer or example answer

   yes

   Yes: hesitation can remain even when the guest accepts.

Use it today

Think of a decision you hesitated to make and describe it using reluctant.