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

In 10 other cases, according to the review, people resisted arrest, some fleeing on foot, while in one instance, an agent briefly clung to the side of a moving car. —Richard Ruelas, AZCentral.com, 24 Oct. 2025

Deiseroth has pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence and resisting arrest without violence. —David Goodhue october 24, Miami Herald, 24 Oct. 2025

Verna insists the souls of the dead live within the alien ship, but Mitsuki resists the lure. —Jp Mangalindan, Time, 24 Oct. 2025

The Travelpro Platinum Elite is built with an ultra-strong polycarbonate shell that flexes on impact to resist cracking. —Nora Colomer 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, 24 Oct. 2025