Word · adjective · often followed by to + verb · C1 · Neutral · willingness, hesitation, and reservations
reluctant
ri-LUK-tuhnt Stress the second syllable, luc; its vowel is like the u in cup.
Not wanting to do something, or hesitating because you have doubts about doing it.
nevoljan; nerad da nešto učini; koji se ustručava
Use it
I’m reluctant to replace a phone that still works perfectly well.
The speaker has reservations, not a lack of ability.
He gave a reluctant nod and agreed to cover the shift.
Someone can agree or act while still not wanting to.
Build the sentence
be/feel/seem reluctant to + verb · a reluctant + noun · reluctantly + verb
Memory scene
A swimmer touches cold water with one toe while leaning away from the pool. She can get in, but she does not want to take the next step.
Watch out
Say be reluctant to do something, not reluctant doing or reluctant for doing. Reluctant does not mean unable, and it does not imply a final refusal. Reluctantly means nevoljno: someone can do something while still not wanting to.
Nearby language
Directly states a lack of willingness and can sound firmer than reluctant.
Emphasizes uncertainty or pausing and need not mean that someone dislikes the action.
Means strongly wanting to do something, the opposite attitude.
Make it yours
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