Reluctant Meaning

UK /rɪˈlʌktənt/
US /rɪˈlʌktənt/
Word Definition
reluctant meaning

Reluctant Definition & Usage

adjective

Unwilling or hesitant to do something; showing reluctance.

Examples

  • "She was reluctant to speak in front of the crowd, her voice trembling slightly."
  • "He felt reluctant to accept the job offer, uncertain if it was the right fit."
  • "The student was reluctant to share his opinion, fearing criticism from classmates."
  • "Despite being reluctant, she agreed to help her friend with the project."
  • "John was reluctant to leave his hometown, even though he had an exciting opportunity in another city."

Cultural Context

'Reluctant' comes from the Latin word 'reluctari,' meaning 'to struggle against.' This reflects the core meaning of being unwilling or resistant to action. It is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts where someone is hesitating or resisting a decision or task.

The Reluctant Decision

Story

The Reluctant Decision

Mia had always been a decisive person, but today was different. Standing at the threshold of a new chapter in her life, she felt a deep reluctance in her chest. The job offer from a prestigious company was exactly what she had dreamed of, yet the thought of leaving her family and friends behind made her hesitate. Her mother had always been her anchor, and the idea of moving across the country filled her with dread. As Mia paced the living room, her best friend Lucy entered the house, noticing her unease. 'What’s going on, Mia?' Lucy asked, concerned. 'You’ve been staring at that letter for hours.' 'I just can’t do it, Lucy,' Mia replied, her voice tinged with reluctance. 'I feel like I’m being pulled in two different directions.' Lucy sat down beside her, offering a comforting smile. 'I know it’s hard. But you’ve always wanted this, right? Think of all the opportunities. If you keep holding back, you might regret it later.' Mia sighed, still reluctant to accept the inevitable decision she had to make. The job was a dream, but the thought of being away from everything familiar was daunting. She was hesitant, unwilling to let go of the life she had built, despite knowing this was the right move. Finally, after much internal struggle, Mia picked up the phone and called the company to accept the offer. She was still reluctant, but there was a sense of relief as she made the choice. In the end, her hesitation was a sign of her deep love for what she was leaving behind, but it was also the push she needed to step into a new future. The next day, as Mia packed her bags, she realized that sometimes reluctance is not a sign of weakness, but a reminder of what truly matters.

The Reluctant Decision