Library / English Dictionary

UNWILLINGLY

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 I. (adverb) 

Sense 1

Meaning:

In an unwilling manner

Example:

he had sinned against her unwillingly

Classified under:

Adverbs

Antonym:

willingly (in a willing manner)

Pertainym:

unwilling (not disposed or inclined toward)

Credits

 Context examples: 

Then the other answered, as if very unwillingly, A little space I may allow thee to sit here, if thou wilt reward me well and entreat me kindly; but thou must tarry yet an hour below, till I have learnt some little matters that are yet unknown to me.

(Fairy Tales, by The Brothers Grimm)

Miss Tilney drew back directly, and the heavy doors were closed upon the mortified Catherine, who, having seen, in a momentary glance beyond them, a narrower passage, more numerous openings, and symptoms of a winding staircase, believed herself at last within the reach of something worth her notice; and felt, as she unwillingly paced back the gallery, that she would rather be allowed to examine that end of the house than see all the finery of all the rest.

(Northanger Abbey, by Jane Austen)

Elinor was obliged, though unwillingly, to believe that the sentiments which Mrs. Jennings had assigned him for her own satisfaction, were now actually excited by her sister; and that however a general resemblance of disposition between the parties might forward the affection of Mr. Willoughby, an equally striking opposition of character was no hindrance to the regard of Colonel Brandon.

(Sense and Sensibility, by Jane Austen)

But I cannot—I have never desired your good opinion, and you have certainly bestowed it most unwillingly.

(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)

The respect created by the conviction of his valuable qualities, though at first unwillingly admitted, had for some time ceased to be repugnant to her feeling; and it was now heightened into somewhat of a friendlier nature, by the testimony so highly in his favour, and bringing forward his disposition in so amiable a light, which yesterday had produced.

(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)

He waited a moment longer, hoping I'd begin a conversation, but I was too absorbed to be responsive, so he went unwillingly home.

(The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald)

He watched while the two men standing closest glanced at each other and went unwillingly into the room.

(The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald)