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noun B1 Intermediate Common

willingness

WIH-lihng-nuhs

Willingness (noun) means the state of being ready and glad to do something. Example: “Her willingness to compromise saved the negotiation.”

noun
1
The state of being ready and glad to do something.
"Her willingness to compromise saved the negotiation."
"The company showed a willingness to invest in staff training."

How to Use Willingness

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHow ready or open someone is to do something.

Common pairings
willingness to help show willingness willingness to change

Word Forms

willingnesses plural

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Test yourself on “willingness” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ to compromise saved the negotiation.

Etymology

From willing + the noun-forming ending -ness.

Antonyms

unwillingness

Related Words

Rhymes for willingness

See all rhymes for willingness →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “willingness” mean?

The word “willingness” means the state of being ready and glad to do something. In plain terms, how ready or open someone is to do something.

How do you pronounce “willingness”?

“Willingness” is pronounced WIH-lihng-nuhs (/ˈwɪlɪŋnəs/ in IPA).

How do you use “willingness” in a sentence?

Here is “willingness” used in a sentence: “Her willingness to compromise saved the negotiation.”

What is the opposite of “willingness”?

The opposite of “willingness” — its antonyms — is unwillingness.

What part of speech is “willingness”?

“Willingness” is a noun.

Is “willingness” a common word?

“Willingness” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

What is the difference between willingness and eagerness?

Willingness simply means being ready and glad to do something, without necessarily implying strong enthusiasm, while eagerness suggests keen, active desire to do it. Someone can be willing to help without being eager about it.

What is the difference between willingness and ability?

Willingness refers to a person's readiness or desire to do something, while ability refers to whether they actually can do it. A person can have the willingness to help but lack the ability, or vice versa.

How is willingness used in formal writing?

Willingness is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as 'a willingness to compromise' or 'a willingness to learn,' to describe a positive attitude or openness toward an action without stating it has happened yet.

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