Question

opposite words for eager

Answer 1

Here are common antonyms for "eager," grouped briefly by nuance:

Single-word opposites (verbs/adjectives)
- reluctant
- unwilling
- hesitant
- disinclined
- averse
- unenthusiastic
- indifferent
- apathetic
- uninterested
- lukewarm
- listless

Noun opposites (for "eagerness")
- reluctance
- reluctancy
- apathy
- indifference
- lack of enthusiasm
- disinclination

Quick examples:
- “She was eager to start” → “She was reluctant to start.”
- “He greeted the task with eagerness” → “He greeted the task with indifference” or “with reluctance.”

If you want opposites suited to a particular sentence or register (formal, casual, literary), tell me the context and I’ll suggest the best fit.