WITHSTAND Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

withstand

verb

with-ˈstand

Definition of withstand next

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

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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

Examples 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 withstand An abrupt resignation: After Trudeau offered her a lesser position, Chrystia Freeland quit on Monday, saying Trudeau's wish to increase spending could endanger Canada's ability to withstand the damage done by the tariffs Trump is threatening to impose. —

Laura L. Davis, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024 The sluggish creatures lurk primarily in the deep, cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans, and are the only sharks to withstand the freezing temperatures year-round. —

Taylor Nicioli, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024 The durable 1,000-piece jigsaw is made of thick stock and high-quality art paper engineered to withstand lazy days of leisure. —

Jaclyn Trop, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2024 Josh and Sarah are in need of a resilient cookie recipe that can withstand travel for their annual holiday gift boxes. —

Bon Appétit, 11 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for withstand