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

Last November, he was arrested in Arlington, Texas, following the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul boxing match on charges of assault on a peace officer, public intoxication, evading arrest and resisting arrest. —Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 7 June 2025

Ultimately, Barr believes that resisting the LGBTQ+ grandchild storyline made her persona non grata at ABC. —Tatiana Siegel, Variety, 6 June 2025

Workshops will include training on resisting evictions, organizing against immigration enforcement and challenging incarceration. —Oumou Fofana, Essence, 6 June 2025

Lawyers representing the federal government resisted, saying the claims were speculative and premature, given that 18 months remain before the next federal election. —Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025