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 Sean Dyche’s rugged, resolute Burnley sides frequently recorded the highest share of forward passes in the Premier League over a season, but a large chunk of these were hoofed clearances. Scepticism about such route-one football predates the current era. Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 14 May 2025 Corenswet has the right look—he’s got the glossy black hair, the resolute jaw—which points to another general Superman strength, particularly on film. Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 11 July 2025 While many Iranians have left Tehran amid ongoing turmoil, those who remain are resolute in their commitment to stay and support one another. Amir Daftari, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025 The older priest is resolute, determined to once more do battle with the Devil. Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for resolute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • Its presence had long gone unnoticed — until some determined scientists visited.
    Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 13 Aug. 2025
  • Seven months in, the administration is determined to keep that pledge.
    Matt Alderton, USA Today, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Josh Brolin plays a grieving father who is intent on finding his missing child, and is suspicious that the young teacher had something to do with it.
    Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 8 Aug. 2025
  • For now, the franchise’s ownership group seems intent on investing in community rugby.
    Vitas Carosella, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The other decisive event was more prosaic: activists from a joint Jewish-Palestinian initiative called Standing Together staged a protest outside the studios of Channels 12 and 13.
    Ruth Margalit, New Yorker, 5 Aug. 2025
  • With broad disapproval of policies on the economy, immigration, and living costs, Democrats may see a possible opening, but have yet to translate this into a decisive lead as the party regroups after the 2024 election loss.
    Anna Commander, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • So here’s what the data is saying: Corporations are confident—just look at buybacks.
    Frank Holmes, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025
  • Willy Adames is confident the Giants could’ve turned two.
    Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • This long-standing promotion, dating back to the 1940s, generates significant positive publicity for George Webb.
    Ricardo Torres, jsonline.com, 14 Aug. 2025
  • For an even more affordable option, this one from Amazon is under $50 and backed by positive customer reviews.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • In terms of comfort, this bed is second to none for those seeking a firm yet plush feel.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2025
  • These tumors are firm, white, and moist on the surface, Aguirre says, and generally persist for up to 150 days—and then disappear.
    Angela Haupt, Time, 14 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

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