resistance

word

/ɹiˈzɪstəns/
ri-ZIS-tuhns
/ɹɪsˈɪstəns/
ri-ZIS-tuhns

Definition

The act of fighting against something, refusing to accept it, or trying to stop it. It can also mean the force that slows movement, such as in science or physical systems.

Usage & Nuances

Often used with 'to': 'resistance to change', 'resistance to disease'. In everyday English, it commonly means opposition from people or groups; in science, it often refers to physical or electrical resistance. Don't confuse it with 'resilience', which means the ability to recover.

Example Sentences

There was strong resistance to the new rule.

basic

This wire has low electrical resistance.

basic

The doctor said the bacteria showed resistance to the medicine.

basic

At first I felt some resistance, but the idea started to make sense.

natural

We expected some resistance from the team when we changed the schedule.

natural

The plan moved forward with almost no resistance.

natural