prove resistant to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prove resistant to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that does not easily change, yield, or succumb to a particular influence or condition. Example: "The new strain of bacteria has shown to prove resistant to several common antibiotics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

If the bugs prove resistant to the drugs, Dr. Pollack suggested trying one of two prescription medications available.

The New York Times

Further, cancer stem cells are now recognized as an origin of disease and prove resistant to many treatment modalities.

Cryobiology

Moroccan authorities claim the country will prove resistant to the wave of revolution sweeping north Africa and the Middle East because of the greater freedoms enjoyed by Moroccans.

The Guardian

Her depression would prove resistant to every class of antidepressant, numerous combinations of antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, intensive psychotherapy and about a hundred sessions of electroconvulsive therapy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Norman Tebbit resisted strong pressure to stand as a spoiler for the right, and later endorsed Mr Major as "an economic dry" who would prove resistant to a single European currency.

The Guardian

The agency said it found the reformulated Opana did prove resistant to crushing — abusers typically seek to crush or pulverize the product to release the drug's narcotic payload — but it could still be cut, ground or chewed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Berea has proved resistant to regeneration.

The Guardian

But shareholders have proved resistant to the entrepreneur's charms.

The Guardian - Business

So far, he has proved resistant to their efforts.

The Guardian - Books

Early this year, her son Iker had a series of infections that proved resistant to treatment.

The New Yorker

One group in society appears to be proving resistant to this positive influence, however.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prove resistant to", ensure that the subject's resistance is clearly linked to a specific factor or influence. For example, specify what the subject is resistant to, such as "prove resistant to antibiotics" or "prove resistant to economic downturns."

Common error

Avoid using "prove resistant to" when the subject shows only a temporary or partial resistance. The phrase implies a consistent and significant level of immunity or resilience. Use alternative phrases like "initially resisted" or "showed some resistance" if the resistance is not absolute.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prove resistant to" functions as a predicate describing the property of a subject to withstand or not be affected by something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound. For example, "These hardy corals typically prove resistant to heat stress."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

44%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "prove resistant to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the ability of something to withstand or not be affected by a particular influence. As Ludwig AI underlines, the phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using the phrase, ensure that the subject's resistance is clearly linked to a specific factor. Alternatives such as "remain unaffected by" or "exhibit immunity to" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not be susceptible to

States a lack of vulnerability to something.

remain unaffected by

Highlights the lack of impact from an external factor.

be impervious to

Indicates an inability to be penetrated or affected.

demonstrate resilience against

Focuses on active resilience rather than passive resistance.

exhibit immunity to

Implies a natural or developed defense against something.

withstand the effects of

Emphasizes the ability to endure negative consequences.

hold out against

Suggests a sustained effort to resist.

stand firm against

Conveys a sense of determination and steadfastness.

show tolerance for

Implies an ability to endure or accept something, often negative.

defy

To openly resist or refuse to obey

FAQs

How can I use "prove resistant to" in a sentence?

Use "prove resistant to" to describe something that effectively withstands or is not affected by a particular influence. For example, "The new material "proves resistant to" corrosion," or "The virus "proves resistant to" common antiviral medications."

What are some alternatives to "prove resistant to"?

Alternatives include "remain unaffected by", "exhibit immunity to", or "not be susceptible to". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "prove resistant to" or "demonstrate resistance to"?

Both "prove resistant to" and "demonstrate resistance to" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Prove resistant to" suggests that the resistance has been conclusively established, while "demonstrate resistance to" implies that the resistance has been shown or observed but may not be fully confirmed.

What does it mean when something "proves resistant to" change?

When something ""proves resistant to"" change, it means that it is difficult to alter or modify. It can apply to systems, ideas, or even behaviors that are deeply entrenched and do not easily adapt to new circumstances.