C1adverbemotionsrelationships
US/rɪˈlʌk.tənt.li/
UK/rɪˈlʌk.tənt.li/
in a way that shows you do not really want to do something
In context
After a long argument, my father reluctantly agreed to let me travel alone.
She reluctantly left the party early because she had an exam the next morning.
The company reluctantly admitted that the new model had a design problem.
Words that go with reluctantly
adverb + verb
- reluctantly agreeThe landlord reluctantly agreed to fix the air conditioner.
- reluctantly acceptHe reluctantly accepted the lower offer.
- reluctantly admitI reluctantly admit that my sister was right.
- reluctantly leaveWe reluctantly left the beach as the sun went down.
- reluctantly decideThey reluctantly decided to sell the family house.
verb + adverb
- nod reluctantlyWhen I asked if she was tired, she nodded reluctantly.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He agreed reluctant to help us.Correct: He reluctantly agreed to help us.