resist

Synonym Chooser

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

Example 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 A little more than a month into Donald Trump’s second term, there is a growing divide between Democrats over how to resist the president’s governing agenda. Audrey Fahlberg, National Review, 6 Mar. 2025 President Trump presented an America First agenda that prioritizes the needs and rights of all Americans, while Democrats stood in opposition, resisting progress at every turn. Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 5 Mar. 2025 We are called to resist systems that perpetuate exclusion and inequity. Betty Lin-Fisher, USA TODAY, 5 Mar. 2025 Ukraine has tried to resist a total capitulation to American demands on natural resources, but has faced intense pressure from President Trump, who views access to Ukraine’s vast mineral wealth as necessary repayment for the billions the United States has provided Kyiv for its war against Russia. Constant Méheut, New York Times, 22 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resist
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resist
Verb
  • Networks of Opposition Groups opposed to the mRNA technology have built a vast and well-funded legal, marketing, and social media network.
    Stephanie Armour | KFF Health News, ABC News, 8 Mar. 2025
  • Tolbert and Hollins discuss the tendencies opposing pitchers might have toward baserunners, but what Tolbert can do doesn’t end with steals.
    Dylan Pescatore, Kansas City Star, 7 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Organizations can address the quantum threats of today and tomorrow by transitioning to post-quantum cryptography that can withstand quantum attacks.
    Anurag Lal, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
  • The Nets closed the game on a 10-2 run, but Golden State withstood the storm, completing their comeback and avenging a Nov. 25 loss to Brooklyn in San Francisco.
    C.J. Holmes, New York Daily News, 7 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Since its establishment in 1992, The Elton John AIDS Foundation has raised over $600 million to support more than 3,100 projects in 95 countries, working to increase healthcare access and fight LGBTQ+ stigma.
    Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
  • The trailer above, which dropped on Wednesday, introduces you to the new couples fighting to see if their love can withstand temptation and drama, but there’s a catch.
    Gabriela Silva, TVLine, 26 Feb. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Resist.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resist. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!