resistance
/ɹɪˈzɪstəns/
The word conveys a sense of pushing back against an external force, whether that force is physical, biological, or political. It implies a tension between two opposing powers where one seeks to maintain its state or position. In social and political contexts, it carries a connotation of defiance. Unlike 'opposition', which can be passive or formal (like a political party), resistance often suggests an active, sometimes clandestine struggle against authority or oppression. In scientific and medical contexts, the tone is neutral and descriptive. It refers to a barrier or a lack of vulnerability. The feeling here is one of stability or immunity—the capacity of a system or organism to remain unchanged despite an external stimulus.
Uncountable when describing a general force, like wind pushing against a car or an electrical property. Countable when referring to specific types of biological immunity, such as 'antibiotic resistances' found in different bacterial strains.
💬Casual Conversation
my brain has zero resistance to this nap. i'm totally zoning out.
bet. just don't sleep through the raid tonight.
Meanings
The refusal to comply with something; opposition.
"There was strong resistance to the new government policy."
The ability not to be affected by something, such as a disease or heat.
"Some bacteria have developed a resistance to common antibiotics."
A force that tends to oppose motion; in physics, the measure of opposition to current flow in an electrical circuit.
"Air resistance slows down a falling object."
An underground organization fighting against an occupying force.
"The French Resistance played a crucial role during World War II."
Collocations & Compounds
stiff resistance
Strong or determined opposition to a plan, policy, or force.
antibiotic resistance
The ability of bacteria to withstand the effects of an antibiotic drug.
air resistance
The force acting opposite to the relative motion of any object moving with respect to a surrounding fluid (air).
electrical resistance
A measure of the opposition to current flow in an electrical circuit.
path of least resistance
The easiest way to achieve a goal or solve a problem, avoiding conflict or difficulty.
Idioms & Sayings
path of least resistance
The easiest way to achieve a goal or avoid conflict.
stiff resistance
Strong, determined opposition to a plan or force.