WITHSTAND Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'withstand' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of withstand are combat , oppose , and resist . While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," withstand suggests a more passive resistance. // trying to withstand peer pressure

Q: When could 'combat' be used to replace 'withstand'?

While the synonyms combat and withstand are close in meaning, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something. // combat disease

Q: Where would 'oppose' be a reasonable alternative to 'withstand'?

The words oppose and withstand can be used in similar contexts, but oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare. // opposed the plan

Q: When might 'resist' be a better fit than 'withstand'?

The synonyms resist and withstand are sometimes interchangeable, but resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it. // resisting temptation

withstand

verb

with-ˈstand

Definition of withstand next

as in to resist

to refuse to give in to trying to withstand the temptation to use the beautiful weather as an excuse to take a mental health day

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb withstand differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of withstand are combat, oppose, and resist. While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

When could combat be used to replace withstand?

While the synonyms combat and withstand are close in meaning, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

Where would oppose be a reasonable alternative to withstand?

The words oppose and withstand can be used in similar contexts, but oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

When might resist be a better fit than withstand?

The synonyms resist and withstand are sometimes interchangeable, but resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

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 withstand The fact is, effective protection requires some forethought that takes legal, economic, and personal variables into consideration in order to withstand future pressures. —

Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026 There’s no denying the beauty of a white diamond—its glittering surface and icy tone is a classic choice that’s withstood the test of time. —

Christina Perrier, InStyle, 10 Feb. 2026 In zone 6, consider a cold-hardy variety like ‘Arp’, which can survive temperatures down to -10ºF, and ‘Hill Hardy’, which can withstand below-freezing temperatures. —

Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026 Dealing with the hectoring racket of New York fans may well have prepared him to withstand the noise of the Super Bowl. —

Sally Jenkins, The Atlantic, 9 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for withstand

Recent Examples of Synonyms for withstand

Verb

Those who are traveling with a partner will appreciate the double vanities—or resist the old-fashioned clawfoot tub.

— Diana Oates, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Feb. 2026
The urge to lie down for a soak, even in winter, is hard to resist.

— Josh Jackson, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026