willingness

American  

[wil-ing-nis] / ˈwɪl ɪŋ nɪs /

noun

1. consent or readiness to do something.

   The majority of the neighborhood’s older residents were employed, and younger people showed a willingness to work but often could not find jobs.

2. an inclination or preference: The country has shown no sign of willingness to make concessions.

   We admire her willingness to stand up for what she believes.

   The country has shown no sign of willingness to make concessions.

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Other Word Forms

• overwillingness noun
• prewillingness noun

Etymology

Origin of willingness

willing ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

If a proposal fails, activists still demonstrate to supporters a willingness to confront the corporation.

From The Wall Street Journal

In that context, his willingness to speak plainly without resorting to spectacle underscores his enduring role as a moral counterweight in an increasingly volatile political landscape.

From Salon

Throughout the debate around increasing workers rights under the Employment Rights Act business groups argued that increased benefits and leave provisions would heap costs on to them and reduce their willingness to increase headcount.

From BBC

But the schools’ sobering return projections and new willingness to cash out early suggest the long-treasured investment is losing its luster.

From The Wall Street Journal

The deputy foreign minister pointed to Tehran's offer to dilute its 60%-enriched uranium as evidence of its willingness to compromise.

From BBC

Related Words

• eagerness
• enthusiasm