willing
Describing someone who is ready, eager, or prepared to do something without being forced. It indicates a state of consent or a positive inclination toward a specific action or request.
Examples
3 of 5I'm willing to help you move your furniture this weekend if you need a hand.
I'm willing to help you move your furniture this weekend if you need a hand.
The applicant must be willing to travel internationally at least once a month.
The applicant must be willing to travel internationally at least once a month.
I'm willing to bet that he forgot about our meeting again.
I'm willing to bet that he forgot about our meeting again.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'Willpower.' If you have the 'will' to do something, you are 'willing' to do it.
Quick Quiz
Despite the difficulty of the task, she was ______ to try her best.
Correct!
The correct answer is: willing
Examples
I'm willing to help you move your furniture this weekend if you need a hand.
everydayI'm willing to help you move your furniture this weekend if you need a hand.
The applicant must be willing to travel internationally at least once a month.
formalThe applicant must be willing to travel internationally at least once a month.
I'm willing to bet that he forgot about our meeting again.
informalI'm willing to bet that he forgot about our meeting again.
Researchers found that subjects were more willing to cooperate when offered a small incentive.
academicResearchers found that subjects were more willing to cooperate when offered a small incentive.
Our company is willing to negotiate the price if you can commit to a long-term contract.
businessOur company is willing to negotiate the price if you can commit to a long-term contract.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
God willing
if all goes well / if it is meant to be
a willing horse
someone who is always happy to take on work
show oneself willing
to demonstrate a readiness to help
Often Confused With
'Willing' refers to the internal state of mind or consent, whereas 'voluntary' often describes an action done without payment or legal compulsion.
Usage Notes
Willing is most commonly used in the pattern 'be willing to + infinitive.' It implies that while you might not be excited about a task, you do not object to doing it.
Common Mistakes
Learners often omit the 'to' before the verb, saying 'I am willing help' instead of 'I am willing to help.'
Memory Tip
Think of 'Willpower.' If you have the 'will' to do something, you are 'willing' to do it.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old English 'willan,' meaning to wish, desire, or be about to.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many English-speaking professional environments, being described as a 'willing worker' is a strong compliment, suggesting you are a team player who doesn't complain.
Quick Quiz
Despite the difficulty of the task, she was ______ to try her best.
Correct!
The correct answer is: willing
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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