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withstand
/wɪðˈstænd/
to resist or endure something difficult
The bridge was designed to withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
The bridge can resist or endure strong winds and heavy rain.
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
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