RESIST Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

resist

verb

ri-ˈzist

Definition of resist next

as in to oppose

to refuse to give in to it is important to resist the temptation to run away from your problems

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How does the verb resist differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of resist are combat, oppose, and withstand. While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

When can combat be used instead of resist?

Although the words combat and resist have much in common, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

In what contexts can oppose take the place of resist?

While in some cases nearly identical to resist, oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

When might withstand be a better fit than resist?

The synonyms withstand and resist are sometimes interchangeable, but withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of resist This artist-first approach resisted attempts to define a singular aesthetic, with many mediums and thematic concerns represented. —

The Artnews Awards Jury, ARTnews.com, 4 Dec. 2024 That was especially true under his second Labor secretary, Eugene Scalia —the son of the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, who had made a career as a lawyer for big corporations resisting labor regulations. —

Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 4 Dec. 2024 The point is to resist using those tools for tasks they’re not designed to tackle. —

Sigal Samuel, Vox, 3 Dec. 2024 Congress, however, resisted, and the proposal never became law. —

Brandon Kochkodin, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for resist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for resist

Verb

On Saturday, the group stormed the city of Homs where the Syrian rebellion began in 2011, also releasing prisoners who had opposed Assad's regime and languished in Syria's infamous jails for years.

ABC News, ABC News, 8 Dec. 2024
Yoon's party called for his removal on Friday, although the party remained formally opposed to impeachment.

Landon Mion, Fox News, 7 Dec. 2024