# willful

/ˈwɪɫfəɫ/ (US) · /wˈɪlfəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/willful
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

doing something on purpose, especially when it is wrong or against the rules. It also describes someone who is stubborn and refuses to change their mind.

For teachers: intentional and deliberate, often in the context of wrongdoing or disobedience; alternatively, describes a person who is headstrong and determined to have their own way.

## Examples

- The driver was charged with willful damage to the property.
- The committee found that the company showed a willful disregard for safety regulations despite multiple warnings.
- The protagonist's willful refusal to acknowledge the changing political landscape eventually led to his downfall, as he preferred his own convictions over the reality of the situation.

## Pitfalls

- Not "a willful mistake" but "a careless mistake" — Willful implies a deliberate choice to do something wrong; it should not be used for accidental errors.

## Usage notes

- Often used in legal contexts to distinguish intentional acts from accidents; frequently precedes nouns like 'disregard', 'neglect', or 'ignorance'.

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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.