Synonyms of resist

resist

verb

ri-ˈzist 

as in to oppose

to refuse to give in to

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• oppose
• withstand
• fight
• repel
• defy
• thwart
• combat
• challenge
• counter
• contradict
• buck
• contend (with)
• hinder
• contest
• obstruct
• frustrate
• stem
• check
• battle
• dispute
• balk
• foil
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• submit (to)
• yield (to)
• surrender (to)
• succumb (to)
• bow (to)
• give in (to)
• stoop (to)
• capitulate (to)
• knuckle under (to)

Synonym Chooser

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

Recent Examples of resist

Think of it as an impossible-to-resist invitation to chill out and get on the same relaxed wavelength as seemingly everyone else on this stretch of the Mexican Caribbean. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Apr. 2026

But critics say Sheinbaum’s government has resisted taking steps against corrupt politicians linked to the ruling party. —Kate Linthicum, Los Angeles Times, 29 Apr. 2026

The incident led to nine individuals being taken into custody on charges, including battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer with violence, resisting an officer without violence and trespassing after receiving a warning, FOX 35 reported. —Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026

Residents who resisted the charms of the governor’s multimillion-dollar press team were already raising an eyebrow at the bold claims and estimates. —Torrey Snow, Baltimore Sun, 29 Apr. 2026