withstand

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 Antonio Ni, an undergraduate student at MSU, is working with Jin, and said testing has also included endurance and the ability to withstand the weight and stress of heavier trucks. Carol Cain, Freep.com, 3 July 2025 According to the brand, the structure’s sturdy steel frame and insulated walls can withstand high winds, rain, and snow. Maggie Horton, People.com, 3 July 2025 The cover is also made from recycled materials that can withstand years of consistent use. Christopher Murray May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025 Uncertain that his ministry could withstand such a long break, Swaggart gave it three months and returned to the pulpit, preaching under the auspices of the Jimmy Swaggart Bible College. Steve Marble, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for withstand
Recent Examples of Synonyms for withstand
Verb
  • But the big challenge for Świątek, resisting a reversion to the baseline aggression when matches get stressful, also gets magnified on grass, where sets can disappear in minutes and errors rack up more easily and quickly.
    Matthew Futterman, New York Times, 5 July 2025
  • The Supreme Court upheld that ruling and ordered the administration to begin the process of releasing him, but officials resisted bringing him back until he was indicted on the human smuggling charges in May.
    Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 4 July 2025
Verb
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is set to meet with Trump in Washington on Monday, is pulled between the US and his allies on the far right who oppose a ceasefire.
    semafor.com, semafor.com, 6 July 2025
  • Veteran righthander Cal Quantrill will take the mound on Saturday, opposing Brewers rookie Chad Patrick in Game 2 of the series.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 5 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Withstand.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/withstand. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on withstand

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