Synonyms of resist

resist

verb

ri-ˈzist 

as in to oppose

to refuse to give in to

it is important to resist the temptation to run away from your problems

Synonyms & Similar Words

• oppose
• withstand
• fight
• repel
• defy
• thwart
• combat
• challenge
• counter
• contradict
• buck
• contend (with)
• hinder
• contest
• obstruct
• frustrate
• stem
• check
• battle
• dispute
• balk
• foil
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• submit (to)
• yield (to)
• surrender (to)
• succumb (to)
• bow (to)
• give in (to)
• stoop (to)
• capitulate (to)
• knuckle under (to)

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

Recent Examples of resist

The move felt like a full-circle moment for Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, who couldn’t resist throwing a little shade in Hov’s direction while hyping Nas’ ties to the project. —Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 26 Sep. 2025

Baker pleaded guilty in July 2018 to resisting arrest, violating a protective-stay-away order and possession of drug paraphernalia, all misdemeanors. —City News Service, Oc Register, 26 Sep. 2025

Brian sees Ellen from across the crowd, standing with Malcolm, and Murtagh can’t resist slipping a verbal dagger into his cousin’s ribs. —Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 26 Sep. 2025

After returning from the suspension, Hartman played some effective hockey down the stretch, and after resisting the Knights’ attempts to goad him into penalties early in their series, averaged a point per game in the playoffs. —Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 26 Sep. 2025