Definition of resolutenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word resolute distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of resolute are constant, faithful, loyal, staunch, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is it sensible to use constant instead of resolute?

The meanings of constant and resolute largely overlap; however, constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

Where would faithful be a reasonable alternative to resolute?

While the synonyms faithful and resolute are close in meaning, faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.

faithful to her promise

When can loyal be used instead of resolute?

While in some cases nearly identical to resolute, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When could staunch be used to replace resolute?

In some situations, the words staunch and resolute are roughly equivalent. However, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

When might steadfast be a better fit than resolute?

The words steadfast and resolute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

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 resolute According to biographer Anne Sebba, Simpson’s answer was resolute. — Hadley Hall Meares, Vanity Fair, 7 Oct. 2026 But his finger, pointed firmly toward the door, was strong and resolute. — Rachel Heng, New Yorker, 4 Oct. 2026 Okereke himself, who was the one called for the unnecessary roughness penalty, was disappointed but resolute postgame. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 28 Sep. 2026 For someone who works in an industry that is constantly in flux, Zurich Film Festival Co-Owner and Festival Director Reta Guetg is resolute in her ambition for the young film event. — Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resolute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • Buckmaster will portray Alex Grey, a determined reporter convinced there’s more going on in Split River than anyone is saying.
    — Denise Petski, Deadline, 12 Nov. 2026
  • The court upheld a prosecutor’s decision to file murder charges against a driver who was determined to be legally intoxicated at the time of a fatal crash and drove at high speeds, ran a red light and had a near miss right before.
    — David Swanson, Chicago Tribune, 11 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • The Chiefs began the third quarter with the ball, and head coach Andy Reid appeared intent on reestablishing the run after handing it off to Kenneth Walker just five times in the first half.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 8 Nov. 2026
  • In pushing Welch out, an apparent majority of the incoming Democratic caucus is intent on putting out the campfire.
    — Rick Pearson, Chicago Tribune, 7 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • The decisive vote, however, will come when the new Congress convenes on January 3, 2027.
    — Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Nov. 2026
  • Successful implementation will depend on Governor Healey taking immediate, decisive steps to modernize the eligibility system, beginning with a sustainable technology investment plan.
    — Stan Soloway, Boston Herald, 11 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • His bold, confident display of desire stood in sharp contrast to my own insecurities and repression.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Across Europe, responsibility for retirement is shifting from governments and employers to individuals, and women are less confident than men that the state will provide.
    — Sam Birchall, Fortune, 6 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • The openness to do different things, play in different roles, and at the same time keep the environment positive.
    — LaMond Pope, Chicago Tribune, 11 Nov. 2026
  • The results were again positive on Tuesday, as this group outscored the Jazz by five points in 20 minutes together.
    — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 11 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Staying calm and firm matters, even when emotions are running high.
    — Renia Goral, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Nov. 2026
  • Nationally, Democrats picked up seven Senate seats Tuesday, gaining firm control of the upper chamber and making major inroads in Republican strongholds such as Texas.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 7 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

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