Willingness
/ˈwɪlɪŋnəs/
Definitions
The state of being prepared to do something.
/ˈwɪlɪŋnəs/
The quality or state of being prepared to do something; readiness.
His willingness to learn new skills made him a valuable asset.
💡 Simply: Willingness is like when you're happy to help someone or do something. If your friend asks if you're willing to play tag, and you say, 'Yes!', that's willingness!
👶 For kids: Being ready and happy to do something.
More Examples
The community showed a great willingness to support the local school.
Her willingness to compromise helped resolve the dispute.
How It's Used
"Her willingness to help others was well-known."
"The company appreciated the employee's willingness to work overtime."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Willing and able
Ready and capable of doing something.
"The company stated they were willing and able to meet the new regulations."
From the adjective 'willing' + '-ness'. 'Willing' comes from Old English 'willian' (to will, desire). The suffix '-ness' is a common way to form abstract nouns.
The term 'willingness' has been used since the late 16th century, initially referring to the state of being 'willing' or ready to do something.
Memory tip
Think of a willing volunteer. Their willingness shows their readiness and eagerness.