# grudgingly

/ˈɡɹədʒɪŋɡɫi/ (US) · /ɡɹˈʌdʒɪŋli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/grudgingly
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

when you do something but you do not really want to do it. You agree or help, but you feel annoyed about it.

For teachers: in a reluctant or unwilling manner, showing annoyance or lack of enthusiasm about an action.

## Examples

- She grudgingly shares her notes with her classmates.
- He grudgingly agrees to work late after his manager explains the deadline cannot move.
- The committee grudgingly approved the budget increase, acknowledging the need for repairs while remaining unconvinced that the extra spending would solve the underlying problems.

## Synonyms

reluctantly, unwillingly, resentfully

## Antonyms

willingly, readily, gladly, eagerly

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the main verb or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.