resist

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

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 resist Malaparte couldn’t resist trading on his notoriety, often surfacing between sentences for parties in high society. Thomas Meaney, New Yorker, 2 July 2025 Despite tornadoes, floods, the Nashville bombing and the COVID-19 pandemic, state leaders have resisted using any of the funds since Lee took office. Vivian Jones, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025 The Supreme Court upheld that ruling, but officials resisted bringing him back until he was indicted in May. Michael Collins, USA Today, 23 June 2025 The rug resists water and features a breathable material that won’t scratch your deck. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 23 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for resist
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resist
Verb
  • The Federal Reserve’s vice-chair for supervision Michelle Bowman is now the second Fed official to support rate cuts as soon as July, opposing Fed chair Jerome Powell.
    Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 24 June 2025
  • Those opposed to institutional real estate investors have pushed for restrictions or outright bans on SFR ownership by institutional investors.
    Caleb Petitt, National Review, 24 June 2025
Verb
  • To incorporate some functionality into your al fresco dining plans (or at least, to account for the youngest members of the guest list), the key is picking out a dining set that can withstand a little wear and tear.
    Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 4 July 2025
  • Few organisms can withstand the scalding waters, as one poor bison recently discovered.
    Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 4 July 2025
Verb
  • The city argued the policy was confidential, and would interfere with the department’s ability to fight crime.
    Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 June 2025
  • The fire has been fought by 16 engines, seven water tenders, three dozers and three hand crews.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 26 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resist.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resist. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resist

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