withstand
/wɪðˈstænd/verb★Intermediate
general
to resist or endure something difficult or powerful
She had the strength to withstand the pressure of her demanding job.
She could endure the stress of her challenging work.
The building's structure can withstand earthquakes.
The building is designed to resist earthquakes.
💡
Often used to describe physical or emotional endurance.
Collocations
withstand pressureto endure stress or demandswithstand criticismto endure negative feedbackwithstand temptationto resist the urge to do something
Synonyms
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'withstand' when describing something enduring or resisting a force, whether physical or emotional.
⚡Gold Rule
Grammar Rule
'Withstand' is a transitive verb and typically requires an object (e.g., 'withstand pressure').
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'withstanden', from Old English 'wiþstandan', from 'wiþ' (against) + 'standan' (to stand).
📝Usage Notes
Commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts to describe resistance or endurance.
Word Breakdown
with-
against
prefixstand
to remain firm or resist
rootEnglish Dictionary