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

Co-founded by Michael Callies, a former artist, and Stephan Jaax, a former banker, the gallery resisted expansion during its over two-decade-long history. —Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 11 June 2026

One man who worked at the plant was sentenced to 14 months in prison after being convicted of wielding a box cutter while attempting to resist an immigration arrest. —Nicole Acevedo, NBC news, 11 June 2026

Taxpayers should resist the temptation to read Sirius Solutions too broadly. —Virginia La Torre Jeker, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

Those arrested were hit with various charges including assault on a police officer, criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and obstructing government administration, officials said. —Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 11 June 2026