grudging
5
6.2
- adjective
- /ˈɡrədʒɪŋ/
:
reacio
- She offered a grudging smile when he complimented her work, clearly not wanting to appear too pleased.
- grudging acceptance
- grudging respect
I think that if you do those things, ultimately you do get grudging respect.
- I think that if you do those things, ultimately you do get grudging respect.
- Sure, we can tip a grudging hat towards all of that, but we will remain in this narcissistic mess of a world we are in if we admire them as people.
Examples
-
After several heated debates, he finally received grudging approval from the committee.
-
Her voice was low and grudging, as if forced out of her.
Fiction book (1998) -
I think that if you do those things, ultimately you do get grudging respect.
-
But you gotta have a grudging respect for your wife at this point, right? -
-
I went with the man without question, even allowing myself a grudging hope.
Fiction book (1993) -
"April made her voice flat and grudging, though she was curious.
Fiction book (1990) -
Now that we have finally achieved the grudging acceptance of the senior institutions, can we afford to change our ways?
Academic text (1997) -
Finally, the Sorg agreed, though in a way that seemed grudging and reluctant.
Fiction book (1999) -
For a nation of immigrants, America has long been a bit grudging about putting out the welcome mat for newcomers.
Academic text (2002) -
Dana's smile was tense and grudging, as if she'd been forced to pose.
Fiction book (1998)
Synonyms
139
3.4
Not wanting to do something and doing it only because you must
1
7.0
Not wanting to give praise or approval but doing it anyway
Antonyms
How Willing
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Grudging comes from grudge, a word for a kept angry feeling and is like the word 'grumble'. So, if you give something grudgingly, you do it 'unwillingly' and without much warmth.