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

The antiquated federal code lacks any guidance for building these homes to withstand earthquakes, wildfires or tornadoes. — Arindam Chowdhury, The Conversation, 9 Oct. 2026

The fund is used to convert the country’s oil wealth into diversified long-term investments that can withstand potential downturns in the oil and gas industry. — Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 8 Oct. 2026

Restaurant owners and auteurs have come to rely on her small business, Union Stitch & Design, for customizable aprons that look neat and can withstand the heat and messes of the kitchen. — Miguel Otárola, Denver Post, 7 Oct. 2026

Ralapanawe said Epic’s factory was designed to withstand climate extremes as well as reduce its environmental impact. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 6 Oct. 2026