Synonym Chooser

How is the word resolute distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of resolute are constant, faithful, loyal, staunch, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is it sensible to use constant instead of resolute?

The meanings of constant and resolute largely overlap; however, constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

Where would faithful be a reasonable alternative to resolute?

While the synonyms faithful and resolute are close in meaning, faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.

faithful to her promise

When can loyal be used instead of resolute?

While in some cases nearly identical to resolute, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When could staunch be used to replace resolute?

In some situations, the words staunch and resolute are roughly equivalent. However, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

When might steadfast be a better fit than resolute?

The words steadfast and resolute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

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 resolute In a statement the night the fire reached the Villa, a Getty Center and Getty Villa Museum spokesperson said the museum benefitted from resolute brush clearance and hearty, double-wall construction. Matteo Moschella, NBC News, 12 Jan. 2025 This means rejecting, with resolute conviction, the seductive allure of victimhood and its tacit relinquishment of personal agency. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 Snider learned to value a resolute approach to adolescent immunity in his work, which has ultimately come to define the approachable, rooted, middle-class artistry that Americana celebrates. Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 4 Dec. 2024 After a young man is possessed in a séance by the spirits of kamikaze pilots: His usual rather weak features had taken on a manly, resolute look. Ian Buruma, The New Yorker, 6 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for resolute 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • Jack Bech is determined to live that reality for himself and his other half.
    Christopher Kamrani, The Athletic, 2 Feb. 2025
  • This isn’t a match the aristocracy would approve of, and sinister forces are determined to keep them apart.
    Lizz Schumer, People.com, 2 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office is intent on changing the script of American cities plagued by crime by implementing policy changes that have led to violent crime taking a tumble.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, Fox News, 28 Jan. 2025
  • The program is the latest target of Trump political appointees intent on reversing even the most workaday decisions made by their predecessors.
    Glenn Thrush, New York Times, 23 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Jeff Buckley’s life started with both an act of embrace and a decisive abandonment.
    Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 24 Jan. 2025
  • The Seahawks scored a decisive 43-8 win over the Denver Broncos to claim the franchise’s first Super Bowl title.
    Vic Tafur, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Having won the penalty from which Chris Wood both completed his hat-trick and scored his 17th goal of the season, Morgan Gibbs-White was pretty confident the big New Zealander would score.
    Nick Miller, The Athletic, 3 Feb. 2025
  • As Republicans revel in President Donald Trump‘s education executive orders, Democrats, appearing more confident after this week’s federal funding freeze reversal, are preparing to challenge them.
    Naomi Lim, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 1 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • On January 14, the princess shared the news with a heartfelt message that reiterated her positive mindset.
    Vogue, Vogue, 3 Feb. 2025
  • By creating more memorable learning experiences, like singing songs, walking through a museum, or creating a project on their own, edutainment might be the first step in instilling positive associations with learning.
    Fiona Tapp, Parents, 3 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • While in the shower and after shampooing, work the brush in a circular, consistent motion—the flexible yet firm bristles will do all of the work, carefully removing build-up without scratching or exacerbating irritation.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Feb. 2025
  • Super Serum Body Wash contains a concentrated serum with beta hydroxy acid to gently exfoliate, plus collagen peptide, niacinamide and vitamins C and E. The result: brighter, hydrated, firmer, smoother and more even skin from the neck down.
    Jackie Fields, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near resolute

Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resolute

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