Synonyms of withstand

withstand

verb

with-ˈstand 

as in to resist

to refuse to give in to

trying to withstand the temptation to use the beautiful weather as an excuse to take a mental health day

Synonyms & Similar Words

• resist
• oppose
• fight
• repel
• defy
• combat
• thwart
• contend (with)
• challenge
• contradict
• buck
• hinder
• counter
• stem
• contest
• frustrate
• obstruct
• check
• dispute
• battle
• balk
• foil
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• yield (to)
• submit (to)
• succumb (to)
• surrender (to)
• bow (to)
• give in (to)
• stoop (to)
• capitulate (to)
• knuckle under (to)

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb withstand differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of withstand are combat, oppose, and resist. While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

When could combat be used to replace withstand?

While the synonyms combat and withstand are close in meaning, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

Where would oppose be a reasonable alternative to withstand?

The words oppose and withstand can be used in similar contexts, but oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

When might resist be a better fit than withstand?

The synonyms resist and withstand are sometimes interchangeable, but resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of withstand

Strengthen your home: Now is the time to improve your home’s ability to withstand hurricane impacts. —Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 19 June 2025

The Valkyries withstood a 10-0 run from the Fever in the third quarter to go down just four going into the final 10 minutes. —Nathan Canilao, Mercury News, 19 June 2025

Because my ego could not withstand Dancing With the Stars. —Dalton Ross, EW.com, 19 June 2025

There's no need to stress about the elements, as it's built to withstand wind, sun, and rain with rust-resistant stainless steel hardware. —Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 June 2025