Willingness

Definition

"Willingness" refers to the quality or state of being prepared or inclined to do something; readiness or eagerness.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɪlɪŋnəs/
• Respelling: WIL-ing-nuhss

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɪlɪŋnəs/
• Respelling: WIL-ing-nuhss

In both American and British English, "willingness" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable. It features a short "i" sound as in "bit" in the first syllable, followed by an "ing" sound, and ending with "nuhss." The pronunciation is essentially the same in both versions of English.

Etymology

"Willingness" is derived from the word "willing", which comes from the Old English "willan", meaning "to wish or will". The suffix "-ness" is added to form nouns indicating a state or condition, making "willingness" denote the state of being willing.

Derivatives

• Willing
• Unwillingness
• Willingly
• Will
• Willed

Synonyms

• Readiness
• Eagerness
• Keenness

Antonyms

• Reluctance
• Hesitation
• Aversion

Usage

"Willingness" describes the predisposition or state of mind of an individual to eagerly or readily undertake a particular action or activity.

Related Terms

• Inclination
• Desire
• Enthusiasm
• Consent
• Agreeableness

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The quality or state of showing readiness or enthusiasm to undertake or do something.‍
• Example: Her willingness to help was commendable.

• The act of giving consent or showing a positive disposition to an idea or proposal.‍
• Example: The willingness of the volunteers made the event a success.

• A tendency or inclination to a particular action or direction.‍
• Example: His willingness to take risks was evident in his business decisions.