volontiers

Volontiers is a French adverb meaning willingly or gladly. It expresses readiness to perform an action or to agree to a request. In English, it is commonly translated as “gladly” or “with pleasure.” The term is widely used in both spoken and written French.

The word is derived from the noun volonté (will) and the related adjective volontaire, with volontiers as the standard adverbial form. It has roots in Old French and remains in common contemporary use. Its usage reflects a positive, cooperative attitude rather than obligation or reluctance.

In practice, volontiers appears in responses to invitations or requests. For example, one might ask, “Voulez-vous du thé?” and receive, “Volontiers.” It can also modify verbs directly, as in “Je vous aiderai volontiers” or “Je viendrai volontiers,” to denote willingness to perform the action. The expression is versatile and appropriate in formal and informal contexts alike.

Related expressions include “avec plaisir” (with pleasure) and, in contrast, phrases that indicate reluctance or obligation. While synonymous with politeness and willingness, volontiers is most often used to convey eagerness or affirmative cooperation, rather than mere acceptance.