B2nounemotionspsychology
US/rɪˈlʌk.təns/
UK/rɪˈlʌk.təns/
a feeling of not wanting to do something, so that you do it slowly or not at all
In context
She showed great reluctance to talk about her old job.
Despite his reluctance, he agreed to speak at the meeting.
There is a general reluctance among doctors to prescribe these drugs.
Words that go with reluctance
verb + noun
- show reluctanceHe showed reluctance to sign the contract.
- overcome reluctanceIt took time to overcome his reluctance to ask for help.
noun + preposition
- reluctance toHer reluctance to travel surprised everyone.
- with some reluctanceShe accepted the offer with some reluctance.
adjective + noun
- obvious reluctanceThe manager answered with obvious reluctance.
- initial reluctanceTheir initial reluctance soon disappeared.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
reluctance for doingCorrect: reluctance to do