The words grudgingly and begrudgingly look and sound almost the same, which is why many English learners mix them up. While they share similar roots and sometimes overlap in meaning, they are not always used in exactly the same way. Knowing when to use each will make your English sound more natural and precise. In this article, we’ll explore grudgingly vs. begrudgingly with easy explanations, examples, and tips.
Grudgingly vs. Begrudgingly: Understanding of Meaning
Meaning of “Grudgingly”
Grudgingly is an adverb that means doing something reluctantly or without wanting to, but still going through with it. You may not feel happy about it, but you accept that it has to be done.
Key Points
- Shows reluctance but not always strong negative emotion.
- Often used when someone agrees to something they would prefer not to do.
- Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
Examples
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She grudgingly agreed to help with the project.
(She didn’t want to, but she still said yes.) -
He grudgingly admitted that she was right.
(He didn’t want to admit it, but he did.) -
They grudgingly accepted the new rules.
(They weren’t happy, but they agreed.)
Meaning of “Begrudgingly”
Begrudgingly is an adverb that also means doing something unwillingly, but it often carries an extra layer of resentment or envy. It can mean you dislike what you’re doing and you feel bitter, possibly because someone else benefits.
Key Points
- Shows reluctance plus resentment or jealousy.
- Often involves the idea of not wanting others to have something.
- Stronger emotional tone than “grudgingly.”
Examples
-
He begrudgingly paid for dinner after losing the bet.
(He was annoyed he lost and had to pay.) -
She begrudgingly congratulated her rival.
(She was jealous, but still gave congratulations.) -
They begrudgingly allowed the new manager to make changes.
(They didn’t like the changes and resented giving permission.)
Grudgingly vs. Begrudgingly: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Grudgingly | Begrudgingly |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Meaning | Reluctantly; without enthusiasm | Reluctantly, with resentment or jealousy |
| Emotion Level | Mild reluctance | Stronger reluctance with bitterness |
| Typical Context | Doing something because it’s necessary | Doing something but feeling someone else doesn’t deserve it or resenting their benefit |
| Example | “He grudgingly agreed to help.” | “He begrudgingly admitted she deserved the promotion.” |
Grudgingly vs. Begrudgingly: Example Sentences
Using Grudgingly in a Sentence
“Grudgingly” is used to describe doing something reluctantly or unwillingly, often with a sense of resentment or bitterness. It can also indicate that the action being performed is done without enthusiasm or generosity.
Here are a few examples of how to use “grudgingly” in a sentence:
- He grudgingly admitted that he was wrong.
- She grudgingly agreed to help with the project.
- They grudgingly accepted the terms of the contract.
Using Begrudgingly in a Sentence
“Begrudgingly,” on the other hand, is used to describe doing something with envy or resentment, often because you feel someone else does not deserve what they have. It can also indicate that the action being performed is done with a sense of reluctance or bitterness.
Here are a few examples of how to use “begrudgingly” in a sentence:
- He begrudgingly congratulated his coworker on the promotion.
- She begrudgingly shared the credit for the project’s success.
- They begrudgingly admitted that the other team played well.
Common Mistakes English Learners Make
Mistake 1: Using them interchangeably without considering tone
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❌ “I begrudgingly did my homework.” (Unless you were resentful about doing it, “grudgingly” is better.)
Mistake 2: Forgetting “begrudgingly” can also mean envy
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“Begrudge” can mean to resent someone’s success, so “begrudgingly” often includes that feeling.
Mistake 3: Overusing “begrudgingly”
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It’s a stronger word, so use it when there’s actual bitterness, not just reluctance.
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