C1noun2K

Resistance

UK /["/rɪˈzɪstəns/"]/US /["/rɪˈzɪstəns/"]/

Definition

dislike of or opposition to a plan, an idea, etc.; the act of refusing to obey

In simple words: The ability to fight back against something.

Examples

  • The resistance to the new policy was widespread among the employees.
  • Electrical resistance in the wire causes it to heat up when current flows through it.
  • She showed great resistance to temptation during the diet challenge.
  • The resistance movement fought against the occupation during wartime.
  • Some bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics, making infections harder to treat.
  • Resistance to change is common in large organizations.
  • The runner's muscles built resistance over time, improving endurance.
  • Magnetic resistance can affect the quality of electronic devices.

Usage notes

Use 'resistance' in contexts involving conflict or opposition. It's appropriate in discussions on politics, psychology, or physics. Avoid using it in informal situations without a clear context.

Grammar pattern

resistance + to/against + object

Memory hint

Think of 'resist ants' — imagine tiny ants fighting off a flood.

Collocations

  • considerable
  • great
  • massive
  • mount
  • offer
  • put up
  • stiffen
  • collapse
  • crumble
  • movement
  • fighter
  • forces
  • without resistance
  • resistance against
  • resistance to
  • the line of least resistance
  • the path of least resistance
  • a pocket of resistance
  • considerable
  • great
  • massive
  • mount
  • offer
  • put up
  • stiffen
  • collapse
  • crumble
  • movement
  • fighter
  • forces
  • without resistance
  • resistance against
  • resistance to
  • the line of least resistance
  • the path of least resistance
  • a pocket of resistance
  • high
  • increased
  • low
  • have
  • build up
  • develop
  • resistance to

Synonyms

  • opposition
  • defiance
  • withstand
  • refusal
  • blocking

Antonyms

  • compliance
  • acceptance
  • submission

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'resistant' which describes something that can withstand.
  • Using 'resistance' without an object, which can make the sentence unclear.
  • Mixing up synonyms and using them incorrectly in context.