willful
/'wilful/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Deliberate and intentional: Done on purpose; not accidental.
- Stubbornly self-willed: Habitually disposed to disobedience and opposition; obstinate.
Usage
The adjective "willful" describes actions that are purposeful or individuals who are stubbornly determined to have their own way. It can have a neutral or negative connotation depending on context.
Examples
- Describing a deliberate action:
- The court found the damage to the property to be willful.
- Her willful ignorance of the facts was frustrating to everyone involved.
- Describing a stubborn person:
- The willful child refused to eat his vegetables.
- He was a willful leader who rarely listened to his advisors.
Advanced Usage
- "Willful misconduct": In legal contexts, this refers to intentional wrongdoing or deliberate disregard for rules and safety.
- The employee was fired for willful misconduct.
- "Willful blindness": A legal doctrine where a person intentionally avoids learning the truth to avoid liability.
- The judge instructed the jury on the concept of willful blindness.
Variants and Related Words
- Willfully (adverb): In a willful manner.
- He willfully disobeyed the direct order.
- Willfulness (noun): The quality or state of being willful.
- Her willfulness often got her into trouble.
Synonyms
- Deliberate: Done consciously and intentionally.
- Intentional: Done on purpose.
- Obstinate: Stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action.
- Headstrong: Energetically willful and determined.
Antonyms
- Accidental: Happening by chance or unintentionally.
- Compliant: Inclined to agree with others or obey rules.
- Obedient: Willing to comply with orders or requests.
Notes on Spelling
- The spelling "wilful" is the standard British English variant. "Willful" is the standard American English spelling. Both have the same meaning.
Adjective
- habitually disposed to disobedience and opposition
- done by design
- the insult was intentional
- willful disobedience