onwillig

Onwillig is a Dutch adjective meaning unwilling or reluctant, not willing to do something or to comply. It can describe a person, an attitude, or a response that is not voluntary. The word can also function as an adverb in phrases such as hij werkte onwillig mee, meaning he reluctantly agreed to cooperate.

Etymology and usage notes: onwillig is formed with the negating prefix on- attached to willig, the modern Dutch word for "willing." Willig itself comes from the broader family of words related to willing or wanting, traced to the verb willen (to want). In everyday language, onwillig is common in neutral to formal writing and speech. In more informal speech, speakers may opt for expressions like niet bereid or terughoudend to convey a similar idea.

Usage and nuance: onwillig typically denotes internal resistance or lack of voluntary cooperation rather than outside coercion. It can describe a person’s attitude toward a task, consent, or participation, and is often contrasted with willig or bereid (willing, ready) to indicate a change from willingness to reluctance. Common related terms include terughoudend (cautious/reluctant) and ongeïnteresseerd (disinterested), depending on the precise nuance.

Regional and linguistic notes: onwillig is understood across Dutch-speaking regions, including the Netherlands and Flanders. It is considered a standard term suitable for formal and descriptive contexts, including journalism, administration, and academic writing.