variants also loth or lothe

Synonym Chooser

How is the word loath different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of loath are averse, disinclined, hesitant, and reluctant. While all these words mean "lacking the will or desire to do something indicated," loath implies hesitancy because of conflict with one's opinions, predilections, or liking.

seems loath to trust anyone

Where would averse be a reasonable alternative to loath?

In some situations, the words averse and loath are roughly equivalent. However, averse implies a holding back from or avoiding because of distaste or repugnance.

averse to hard work
not averse to an occasional drink

When could disinclined be used to replace loath?

The synonyms disinclined and loath are sometimes interchangeable, but disinclined implies lack of taste for or inclination.

disinclined to move again
disinclined for reading

In what contexts can hesitant take the place of loath?

While in some cases nearly identical to loath, hesitant implies a holding back especially through fear or uncertainty.

hesitant about asking for a date

When is it sensible to use reluctant instead of loath?

While the synonyms reluctant and loath are close in meaning, reluctant implies a holding back through unwillingness.

a reluctant witness

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of loath However, most countries are loath to encourage secessionist movements. Kate Bartlett, Christian Science Monitor, 12 June 2025 The Biden administration assumed that this new regional conflict would strengthen the case for an Israel–Gulf state security alliance, but the Gulf states were loath to be dragged into that conflict. Vali Nasr, Foreign Affairs, 10 June 2025 Athletes and coaches are loath to admit even a shred of positive in any defeat, let alone in the immediate aftermath, but if ever the moral victory existed, can’t Inter Miami claim some of that even after a 4-0 defeat? Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 29 June 2025 Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for loath
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loath
Adjective
  • The band is reluctant to get into too many other details of Lydon’s behavior on that tour.
    Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 12 July 2025
  • Our evaluation might be incorrect, and investors may be reluctant to assign a higher valuation to P&G due to its recent decline in sales.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • Yet Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) – which leads Germany’s coalition government – is hesitant.
    Sophie Tanno, CNN Money, 6 July 2025
  • His defense at second base is also still evolving, too, which accentuates why the Astros are hesitant to summon him.
    Chandler Rome, New York Times, 4 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Loath.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loath. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loath

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!