we are unwilling to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are unwilling to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a refusal or lack of desire to do something. Example: "After careful consideration, we are unwilling to proceed with the proposed changes to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We are unwilling to take that step.

Cornell University

We are unwilling to go so far.

Cornell University

We are unwilling to reverse course in this case.

Cornell University

Rep. 425, we are unwilling to declare the judgment to have been wholly without foundation.

Cornell University

We do not see the real issues in this election, for we are unwilling to look".

The New York Times

With so few clear benefits to the mayor's plan, we are unwilling to take the risk.

The New York Times

In negotiation, virtually all of us have certain sacred values on which we are unwilling to compromise.

Harvard University

Because we are unwilling to countenance such a departure from the limits on judicial power contained in Art.

Cornell University

"It's not that we are unwilling to go against them; we just don't have the resources," the ISI official said.

The New York Times

"We are unwilling to accept a bill that does not meet at least the minimum criteria," he said.

The New York Times

"So yes, I could see the Chinese being willing to make investments in areas where we are unwilling to".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone when using "we are unwilling to". It can sound firm or even confrontational, so choose it carefully depending on your audience and the context of your message.

Common error

While "we are unwilling to" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversations. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "we don't want to" or "we'd rather not" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are unwilling to" functions as a declarative statement expressing a refusal or reluctance to perform a specific action. It is a common way to communicate a firm decision, as showcased by Ludwig's examples from various authoritative sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

32%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are unwilling to" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey a firm refusal or lack of intention. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals that it is most frequently used in News & Media and Academic contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. When a less formal tone is needed, alternative phrases such as "we are hesitant to" or "we decline to" can be considered. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are hesitant to

Indicates a pause or reservation before acting.

we are reluctant to

Suggests a disinclination or aversion to something.

we are disinclined to

A more formal way of expressing a lack of enthusiasm or willingness.

we refuse to

A direct and firm declaration of unwillingness.

we decline to

A polite but firm way of saying no.

we are not prepared to

Indicates a lack of readiness or agreement to do something.

we are not ready to

Similar to "we are not prepared to", but focuses on the state of readiness.

we cannot bring ourselves to

Highlights an internal resistance or emotional barrier.

we are loath to

Indicates a strong feeling of aversion or unwillingness.

it is not our intention to

Focuses on the absence of intent to perform an action.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "we are unwilling to"?

Alternatives include "we are hesitant to", "we decline to", or "we refuse to", depending on the context and desired tone.

How does the formality of "we are unwilling to" compare to other similar phrases?

"We are unwilling to" is more formal than phrases like "we don't want to" or "we're not going to". It's suitable for professional or academic writing but may sound stilted in casual conversation.

Is "we're unwilling to" a correct contraction of "we are unwilling to"?

Yes, "we're unwilling to" is a perfectly acceptable contraction of "we are unwilling to" and maintains the same meaning. The choice between the two often depends on the desired level of formality.

When should I use "we are unwilling to" instead of "we are unable to"?

Use "we are unwilling to" when you are expressing a choice not to do something, rather than a lack of capability. If the reason is a lack of ability, use "we are unable to".