be able to resist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be able to resist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capacity or ability to withstand temptation or pressure. Example: "Despite the delicious desserts on the table, I was determined to be able to resist them and stick to my diet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But will he be able to resist?

The Economist

"We are hopeful that we will be able to resist them," he said.

The New York Times

Cynics may be able to resist it, precisely because the marks are all hit so deliberately.

The New Yorker

Will he be able to resist giving his advice to his wife or to stray journalists?

The Economist

But he may not be able to resist calls for a separate parliamentary vote.

The Economist

But my guess is that you won't be able to resist using both pretty quickly.

The New York Times - Magazine

Will he be able to resist the temptation of similar crimes?", the victim's father said.

Independent

That means that a thousand cells in each tumor will be able to resist the drug.

The New York Times - Science

But the pressure is growing so fast BO may not be able to resist it.

Independent

Sooner or later, you won't be able to resist dipping in.

The New York Times - Tech

Whatever it is, I will not be able to resist it.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger verbs like "withstand" or "oppose" for more forceful contexts. "Be able to resist" is suitable for general situations, but more specific verbs can add nuance.

Common error

While versatile, "be able to resist" can sound passive in highly formal writing. Opt for more direct and active verbs like "counteract" or "defy" to convey strength and determination more effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be able to resist" functions as a modal verb phrase, indicating the capacity or ability to withstand or oppose something. It expresses a potential action, as Ludwig examples show, often related to temptation, pressure, or force.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be able to resist" is a versatile and frequently used modal verb phrase indicating the capacity or potential to withstand something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalence across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for general use, consider stronger, more specific verbs for enhanced impact in formal or forceful situations. Be mindful of overuse and tailor your choice to the desired nuance, ensuring clarity in what is being resisted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be capable of resisting

Stresses the inherent capability to resist.

manage to resist

Focuses on the act of successfully resisting, emphasizing the effort involved.

succeed in resisting

Emphasizes the successful outcome of resisting.

have the strength to resist

Highlights the internal fortitude required to resist.

be strong enough to resist

Highlights that the level of strength to resist has to be enough.

prove resistant to

Implies a demonstrated ability to withstand something, particularly pressure or force.

be in a position to resist

Focuses on the favorable condition for resistance.

be equipped to resist

Stresses that there has been a preparation to resist.

be well-placed to resist

Suggests an advantageous positioning that facilitates resistance.

find it possible to resist

Emphasizes the possibility of resisting, suggesting it might be challenging.

FAQs

How can I use "be able to resist" in a sentence?

You can use "be able to resist" when talking about withstanding something. For example, "Will he "be able to resist" giving his advice?". It indicates the capability to avoid succumbing to temptation or pressure.

What are some alternatives to "be able to resist"?

Alternatives include "manage to resist", "have the strength to resist", or "succeed in resisting". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "be able to resist" and "resist"?

"Be able to resist" emphasizes the capability or potential to resist, while "resist" implies the action of resisting. "They should "be able to resist"" suggests they have the capacity, whereas "they resist" means they are actively opposing something.

When is it more appropriate to use a stronger verb than "be able to resist"?

In situations needing emphasis on forceful action, stronger verbs such as "withstand", "defy", or "counteract" may be more fitting than the more general term, ""be able to resist"".