The phrase "apparent reluctance" refers to when someone appears to be hesitant or unwilling to do something, even though it may not reflect their true feelings or intentions. Full definition
When a fellow police officer is murdered, Levine is asked to rejoin the force, at least temporarily, to head the investigation; he agrees, with apparent reluctance, which allows him to both name his... (bookpage.com)
Day - Lewis skillfully switched back and forth between Lincoln's enthusiasm of telling heart - felt stories to his Cabinet and his seemingly apparent reluctance over contending with Mary's depression over the death of one of their sons, three years earlier. (shockya.com)
Equally frustrating is the film's apparent reluctance in introducing Lydon's long - term partner, Nora, for reasons best known to its subject. (lwlies.com)