Synonyms for

Resist

Verb / rɪˈzɪst / / ri:ˈzɪst / Another word for resist — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to try to stop or prevent something

Synonyms & similar words

jib refuse reject lendoneself surrender holdout protest stand baulk fend defy withstand standfirm dissent balk oppose defy withstand fight protest challenge oppose contradict counter thwart hinder frustrate impede obstruct block restrain refuse disapprove object deny

Synonyms by register

Formal

withstand oppose defy counter

Informal

fight back stand up to hold out push back

Literary

brave strive against contend

Antonyms

yield submit surrender acquiesce capitulate give in comply

Common collocations

  • resist arrest
  • resist temptation
  • resist change
  • resist the urge
  • resist pressure
  • resist attack
  • resist the flu

Word family

noun resistance
verb resist
adjective resistant
adverb resistantly

Usage note

Resist can be used in both physical and abstract contexts. Be mindful of the register; 'fight back' is more informal than 'oppose'.

Example sentences

  1. I will resist the temptation to watch TV instead of doing my homework.
  2. The students decided to resist against the school's dress code policy.
  3. The athlete was able to resist the urge to quit and ended up winning the race.
  4. The protestors were resisting the government's decision to cut down the trees.
  5. She had to resist the urge to scream when she saw the spider.

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