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

It’s made with a super-durable construction designed to withstand wear from at-home projects, while the loose fit allows for comfortable movement. —Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 4 Oct. 2025

Pique Interest Low-lift brassica plants make an impact and are known for withstanding light freezes (the cool weather enhances their coloring). —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2025

All three of the boot styles, alongside a product manifest and brand artifacts — all buried in a container designed to withstand the elements, much like its contents. —Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 3 Oct. 2025

Russia has spent too many resources to withstand the pressure of Western sanctions. —Nina Khrushcheva, Time, 3 Oct. 2025