What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
resisted
Example
She resisted the temptation to eat the cake. [resisted: verb]
Example
The protesters resisted the police's attempts to disperse them. [resisted: past tense]
withstand
Example
The building was able to withstand the earthquake. [withstand: verb]
Example
He tried to withstand the pressure from his boss to work overtime. [withstood: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Withstand is more commonly used than resisted in everyday language. Withstand is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while resisted is less common and refers to a more specific type of opposition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between resisted and withstand?
Both resisted and withstand are formal words that are appropriate for academic or professional writing. However, withstand may be slightly more formal due to its broader usage and connotation of strength and resilience.
