Resist
Definitions and Meaning in English
- To withstand or oppose something, especially force, pressure, or temptation.
- To fight against or try to prevent something from happening or affecting you.
- To refuse to accept or comply with something.
- To remain unaffected or unaffected by something despite external influences.
History and Origin
The word “resist” comes from the Latin resistere, meaning “to stand firm against” or “to oppose,” which is derived from re- (meaning “against”) and sistere (meaning “to stand”). The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the act of opposing or enduring something, and it has maintained its meaning of opposing external forces or influences. Over time, it has expanded to describe psychological, emotional, or social opposition, as well as physical resistance.
Detailed Explanation
To “resist” means to actively fight against or oppose something, whether it is a physical force, an external influence, a temptation, or an emotional reaction. Resistance can be a physical action, such as resisting arrest or resisting a push, or it can be a mental or emotional response, such as resisting the urge to eat unhealthy food. The concept of resistance is often used in both everyday life (for example, resisting temptation) and more formal contexts, such as social movements or political resistance against oppression. While resisting can be a sign of strength and willpower, it can also result in conflict or confrontation, particularly when the force or influence being resisted is significant or powerful.
Example Sentences
- She managed to resist the temptation to eat the entire cake.
- The soldiers were trained to resist enemy forces during combat.
- The community resisted the construction of the new highway, fearing it would harm the environment.
- He tried to resist the urge to shout, but his frustration grew.
- The protesters resisted the government’s decision, demanding a change in policy.
- Despite the pain, he resisted the urge to stop running.
- The new policies were resisted by many employees who felt they were unfair.
- She resisted the temptation to check her phone during the meeting.
- The city has been resisting the pressure to raise taxes for years.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Withstand – To endure or resist something, especially a difficult or challenging situation.
- Oppose – To actively fight against or argue against something.
- Defy – To boldly resist or refuse to comply with authority or expectations.
- Fight – To engage in resistance, either physically or figuratively, against something harmful or unwanted.
- Repel – To drive something away, often used in the context of resisting physical forces or attacks.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Endure – To withstand hardship or difficulty over a period of time.
- Refuse – To decline or reject something, often a type of resistance to an offer or request.
- Rebel – To resist authority or control, often in a political or social context.
- Fight Back – To respond to aggression or opposition with resistance or counteraction.
- Opposition – The action or resistance against something, especially when organized or systematic.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Resistant – Showing an ability to resist or withstand a particular condition or effect.
- Counter – To oppose or act against something, often used in strategic or defensive contexts.
- Subvert – To undermine or resist authority or established norms, often in a covert or rebellious manner.
- Avoid – To deliberately stay away from something, often as a form of resistance to temptation or undesirable actions.
- Repulse – To drive away or resist a physical attack, often with force or determination.
Antonyms
- Submit
- Yield
- Surrender
- Conform
- Accept