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

Congress should resist, but Speaker Johnson is a sleeping security guard. —Lucas Robinson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 May 2026

Eight people were arrested at the demonstration, Gothamist said, and were charged with resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration, reckless endangerment and criminal mischief. —Amethyst Martinez, USA Today, 6 May 2026

Still, Liam’s and Naoise’s natural charm and immediate likeability are hard to resist. —Lily Moayeri, SPIN, 6 May 2026

Laurie Stone on resisting measurement. —Literary Hub, 6 May 2026