Word
resisting
Phoneticsre·sist·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹiˈzɪstɪŋ/
UK/ɹɪsˈɪstɪŋ/
Definitions
01opposing a force or change
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.
“The local community is resisting the plan to build a new highway through the park.”
“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.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02stopping an impulse
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.
“I am resisting the urge to buy that expensive watch until I save more money.”
“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).
Synonyms
Antonyms
03the act of opposition
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun 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.
“Their resisting of the new rules led to a long discussion with the manager.”
“The persistent resisting of colonial authority by the local population eventually forced a complete reassessment of the region's administrative policies.”
Teaching tip
While 'resistance' is the more common noun, the gerund 'resisting' is used when focusing on the ongoing action.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“He takes the long view of Afghanistan's history of resisting foreign invaders.” “Ahead of this 3-1 or 3-2 base, wingers are asked to stay high and wide, resisting the urge to leave their position.” “In effect, many employees are resisting AI because they have watched their colleagues lose jobs to it or fear they will be next.” “Wounaan have spent centuries refusing and resisting those forces , fighting against those who take land and rights unjustly.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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