RESIST Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'resist' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of resist are combat , oppose , and withstand . While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it. // resisting temptation

Q: When can 'combat' be used instead of 'resist'?

Although the words combat and resist have much in common, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something. // combat disease

Q: In what contexts can 'oppose' take the place of 'resist'?

While in some cases nearly identical to resist , oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare. // opposed the plan

Q: When might 'withstand' be a better fit than 'resist'?

The synonyms withstand and resist are sometimes interchangeable, but withstand suggests a more passive resistance. // trying to withstand peer pressure

resist

verb

ri-ˈzist

Definition of resist

as in to oppose

to refuse to give in to it is important to resist the temptation to run away from your problems

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How does the verb resist differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of resist are combat, oppose, and withstand. While all these words mean "to set oneself against someone or something," resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

When can combat be used instead of resist?

Although the words combat and resist have much in common, combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

In what contexts can oppose take the place of resist?

While in some cases nearly identical to resist, oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

When might withstand be a better fit than resist?

The synonyms withstand and resist are sometimes interchangeable, but withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

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 resist The tribute carries particular resonance because Parton had previously resisted efforts to put her own legacy on a pedestal. — Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 28 Aug. 2026 So trying to resist getting sucked into your phone just feels like resisting the inevitable sometimes. — Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2026 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has responded with unusual restraint to Trump’s provocations and has resisted demands to pull away from Washington. — C. Raja Mohan, Foreign Affairs, 27 Aug. 2026 Despite being the nation's largest retailer, Walmart has spent years resisting the contactless payment technology that has become routine at many other stores. — Ashley Ferrer, Florida Times-Union, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for resist

Verb

The union has opposed such a window on the belief players would feel forced into subpar contracts.

— Evan Drellich, New York Times, 28 Aug. 2026
With Gaines expected to command significant attention from opposing defenses, FIU will need other playmakers to step up.

— Alejandro Hernandez, Miami Herald, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of oppose

Verb

Without a clear message from Warsh, investors began to doubt the Fed’s inflation-fighting resolve.

— Brian Cheung, NBC news, 28 Aug. 2026
Federal safety investigators urged automakers to give emergency responders better guides on how to fight lithium-ion battery fires.

— Todd C. Frankel, Washington Post, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of fight

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resilient

resist

resistance

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“Resist.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resist. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of resist

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