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

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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 Sweet cherries, such as Bing or Rainier, thrive in mild climates, while tart cherries like Montmorency can withstand colder regions. —

Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 27 June 2026 That's because the temperature can discolor or warp oven racks that aren't designed to withstand such high heat. —

Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 27 June 2026 Position size, entry price, liquidity, and the ability to withstand volatility become increasingly important. —

Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 This compact, packable option from Repel is far better than your standard travel umbrella, however, as it’s designed to withstand up to 100-mph winds while remaining lightweight. —

Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for withstand

Recent Examples of Synonyms for withstand

Verb

The Ground Above, her follow-up to 2022’s Weather Alive, resists the tacit assumption that an artist’s catalogue should walk a straight line.

— Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 25 June 2026
Ask for the dressing on the side, or resist ordering the extra ranch dip or heavily marinated meat.

— Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 25 June 2026