WITHSTAND Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

withstand

verb

with-ˈstand

Definition of withstand next

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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 withstand How the college responds could be a test of higher education’s wherewithal to withstand a hostile executive branch. —

Marie-Amelie George, The Conversation, 28 May 2026 In terms of upholstery, look for quick-drying materials but also those that have a coating to withstand mildew growth and deal with harsh UV rays without fading. —

Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 28 May 2026 It is totally sealed from tiny particles and can withstand about 5 feet of water for 30 minutes. —

Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 28 May 2026 When that web frays, ecosystems lose their ability to store carbon and produce food, water, and oxygen, while withstanding climate stress. —

Tatjana Baleta, Time, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for withstand

Recent Examples of Synonyms for withstand

Verb

The printing director who resisted the effort said she was reassigned last month.

— Jonathan O'Connell, Washington Post, 28 May 2026
Moise is charged with driving under the influence (DUI), grand theft, fleeing and eluding, and resisting an officer.

— Peter D'Oench, CBS News, 28 May 2026