Resist Meaning
Resist Definition & Usage
To actively oppose or refuse to comply with something.
Examples
- "He resisted the temptation to eat the chocolate cake."
- "The protesters resisted the new government policies with peaceful demonstrations."
- "She resisted the urge to tell him the truth about the surprise party."
- "Many people resist change because it makes them feel uncomfortable."
- "He resisted arrest and had to be restrained by the police."
To withstand or endure something without being significantly affected or harmed.
Examples
- "The building was designed to resist earthquakes."
- "She has a strong immune system that helps her resist infections."
- "His mental fortitude allowed him to resist the pressure of the job."
- "The soldiers resisted the harsh conditions of the desert environment."
- "The fabric is water-resistant, so it won't get soaked in the rain."
To decline or refuse to accept something, such as an idea, offer, or influence.
Examples
- "She resisted the suggestion to move abroad for work."
- "The community resisted the idea of a new shopping mall being built in their neighborhood."
- "He resisted any attempts to change his mind about the decision."
- "They resisted the notion that technology could replace human workers entirely."
- "I tried to resist the idea of going on a diet, but eventually gave in."
Cultural Context
The word 'resist' comes from Latin, where 'resistere' meant to stand back or oppose. Throughout history, it has been used to describe various forms of opposition, from political resistance against oppressive regimes to personal resistance against temptation or outside influence. The concept of resistance is a significant part of political, social, and psychological discourse, especially in movements for civil rights, freedom, and justice.
The Weight of Resistance
Story
The Weight of Resistance
Lena had always been a woman of principle, someone who resisted the idea of conformity in a world that seemed determined to push her into its mold. When the city council announced plans to build a shopping mall on the last green space in town, she knew she couldn't stay silent. Her resistance began with a simple petition, but it quickly grew into something bigger. As the protests escalated, so did the pushback. Developers tried to sway public opinion, offering incentives and perks to the community. But Lena resisted their promises with every fiber of her being. One evening, after a particularly heated town hall meeting, Lena sat down in the quiet of her living room, exhausted but resolute. She thought about her grandfather, who had fought in the civil rights movement. 'If he could stand up against greater odds,' she thought, 'so can I.' At that moment, she realized resistance wasn’t just about pushing back against others—it was about standing firm in her own beliefs. The mall would be built, but the fight wasn’t over. She had resisted the idea of giving up, and in doing so, had inspired others to do the same. As the months passed, the community continued to resist, eventually leading to a compromise that preserved part of the park. It wasn’t the victory they had hoped for, but it was a start. Lena’s story showed that resistance wasn’t always about winning; sometimes, it was simply about enduring, withstanding the pressure to conform, and holding fast to one’s values in the face of overwhelming odds.
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