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 If such a situation arises, China will never accept it and will take countermeasures in a resolute and reciprocal manner. Ross Rosenfeld, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Apr. 2025 Garland shared the duo’s resolute ethic while appearing at a Los Angeles panel alongside Mendoza (and D’Pharoah Woon-A-Tai, who portrays Mendoza with a convincing stoicism that arose from his inquiries into the concerted memories of the SEAL’s battle mates). Fred Schruers, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2025 On the invasion’s somber anniversary, European leaders and other Western allies descended on Kyiv to demonstrate their resolute support and pledge more money and military assistance to Ukraine. Kim Barker, New York Times, 24 Feb. 2025 Sandra Bullock, The Blind Side In the big-screen adaptation of this true story, Sandra Bullock played Leigh Anne Tuohy, the resolute Southern mother who adopts teen Michael Oher. Zoey Lyttle, People.com, 2 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resolute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • But Trump remains defiant about the tariffs, much like Putin remains determined to continue Russia’s assault on Ukraine.
    Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Despite a sentence that will likely mean spending the rest of her life in prison, Melody remains determined to prove her innocence.
    Susan Mallie, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • In the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup, the Herons exited in the quarterfinals to a CF Monterrey squad that has decisively been the best in Concacaf competition over the last decade-and-a-half, and seem intent on showing it would not be supplanted easily.
    Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 3 May 2025
  • This year’s Amazins seem intent on having a more relaxing stroll into October.
    Sam Settleman, New York Times, 3 May 2025
Adjective
  • The Timberwolves were basking in the glow of this decisive victory over the league’s glamour franchise.
    Jon Krawczynski, New York Times, 1 May 2025
  • February 2025 Queen of Swords: February’s energy is pushing you to set clear boundaries and make decisive moves, especially in your financial or professional life this month.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • And over the opening month of this season, Yamamoto’s confident mound presence has been mirrored behind the scenes, the pitcher becoming more vocal in game-planning meetings and assured in his clubhouse demeanor.
    Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Assistant Professor of Communication Mary Catherine Kennedy, Ph.D., is confident that Gussie will succeed.
    Jon Haworth, ABC News, 26 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The numbers paint a generally positive outlook that, according to these forecasters, should allow the nation to narrowly dodge a slump.
    Paul Davidson, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2025
  • His spirit is one of life and moving forward and trying to find a way to survive and to thrive and to grow and to be in this positive, progressive state.
    Abigail Lee, Variety, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • New federal rules mandate firmer construction, safer strap guidelines, and clearer warnings to ensure nursing pillows are used correctly.
    Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 28 Apr. 2025
  • His relationship evolved from setting firm boundaries to setting ethical guardrails, offering context, and supporting his autonomy with curiosity and love.
    Rebekah Bastian, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 11 May. 2025.

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