English Reference
verb · noun

resisting

v. · n.
US /ɹiˈzɪstɪŋ/ UK /ɹɪsˈɪstɪŋ/ re·sist·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.fighting against someone or something that is attacking you or trying to change things.

    v.exerting force or influence to oppose an external pressure, attack, or proposed change.

    Simple

    The local community is resisting the plan to build a new highway through the park.

    In context

    By resisting the hostile takeover, the board of directors demonstrated their commitment to the company's long-term independence and original mission.

    Usage

    Often used with a direct object representing the force or change being opposed.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.stopping yourself from doing something that you find attractive or tempting.

    v.exercising self-control to refrain from an action, desire, or temptation.

    Simple

    I am resisting the urge to buy that expensive watch until I save more money.

    In context

    Resisting the temptation to intervene, the mentor allowed the student to navigate the complex problem independently to build confidence.

    Usage

    Commonly followed by a noun phrase or a gerund (the '-ing' form).

    refrainingavoiding
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the act of fighting back or refusing to follow orders.

    n.the action of opposing something or someone; used as a gerund to describe the state of defiance.

    Simple

    Their resisting of the new rules led to a long discussion with the manager.

    In context

    The persistent resisting of colonial authority by the local population eventually forced a complete reassessment of the region's administrative policies.

    Teacher's tip

    While 'resistance' is the more common noun, the gerund 'resisting' is used when focusing on the ongoing action.

He takes the long view of Afghanistan's history of resisting foreign invaders.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

Ahead of this 3-1 or 3-2 base, wingers are asked to stay high and wide, resisting the urge to leave their position.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated