resist force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "resist force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physics, mechanics, or metaphorically in situations where one is opposing or standing against a particular influence or pressure. Example: "The material must be able to resist force without deforming under pressure."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

He had acted alone with "the deepest regret," he claimed almost apologetically, only because "no choice was left but to call out the war power…to resist force, employed for its destruction, by force, for its preservation".

The New York Times

The majority went further in explicitly validating Lincoln's blockade and larger actions: "If a war be made by invasion of a foreign nation, the President is not only authorized but bound to resist force by force.

The New York Times

"The United States will, of course, not be deterred in its efforts to help the Lebanese people, to help the democratic forces in Lebanon, to help Lebanon resist force and interference in their affairs," she told reporters from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The New York Times

Ostensibly urging the US to resist force in Syria, the article was widely seen as an attempt to mock Obama, using many of the arguments that would appeal to his own liberal base, and taking issue with America's self-perceived "exceptionalism".

The Guardian

An individual has a right of defensive war if attacked, since natural law permits a person to resist force with force, but offensive or punitive war can be waged only by a commonwealth or ruler (pp. 299 302).

SEP

Our mechanical model of the FA is therefore not an elastic layer, but a row of elastic elements arrayed in the lengthwise direction, each of which can only resist force along the ligand-integrin-plaque protein axis (Fig. 1).

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

This is a generation whose members resist force-fed décor.

The New York Times

All solids have, for example, the ability to resist forces applied either perpendicular or parallel to a surface (i.e., normal or shear loads, respectively).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Somebody has a gadget they have to build, an experiment too sweet to resist, forces they need to probe, regardless of the consequences.

The New York Times - Science

Steel concentrically braced frames are very efficient steel structures that are commonly used to resist forces due to wind or earthquakes.

International Journal of Advanced Structural Engineering (IJASE)

We resist forces that would divide us.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "resist force" when you want to emphasize the act of actively opposing or withstanding a physical or metaphorical force. Consider alternatives like "withstand pressure" or "oppose power" for different nuances.

Common error

Don't use "resist force" when you mean to simply endure or withstand something without active opposition. "Withstand pressure" might be more appropriate if the focus is on the ability to bear a load without breaking.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "resist force" is as a verb phrase where "resist" is a transitive verb taking "force" as its direct object. This phrase often describes the action of opposing or withstanding a physical or abstract force. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "resist force" is grammatically sound and functions as a verb phrase describing the act of opposing or withstanding a force. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts, with a neutral to formal register. When using "resist force", ensure it accurately conveys active opposition rather than passive endurance, and consider alternatives like "withstand pressure" or "oppose power" for nuanced meanings. Be mindful of the intended audience and context to maintain appropriate formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

withstand pressure

Implies enduring force without yielding, focusing on the capacity to bear weight or strain. It shifts from active resistance to passive endurance.

oppose power

Indicates a direct confrontation against a form of authority or strength. The focus shifts from physical force to a broader concept of power.

counteract influence

Suggests neutralizing or diminishing the effect of something. Focus is on influence rather than direct force.

defy authority

Conveys a sense of rebellion or disobedience against established rules. It implies resistance to command or control.

endure impact

Highlights the ability to suffer through a collision or strong effect without succumbing. Emphasizes survival and resilience.

defend against aggression

Specifies resistance against hostile or attacking actions, emphasizing protection and safeguarding.

fight back

Indicates retaliatory action against an attack. The phrase is more informal and action-oriented.

stand firm

Implies an unwavering position against pressure, conveying determination and resilience. It lacks the direct confrontation implied by "resist force".

hold out against

Suggests prolonged resistance, indicating a struggle to maintain a position or condition under duress. Focuses on longevity of resistance.

push back

Denotes opposing a movement or change, often used in a political or social context. Focus is on impeding progress or reversing a direction.

FAQs

How can I use "resist force" in a sentence?

You can use "resist force" in sentences like: "The material must be able to "resist force" without deforming." or "The president is authorized and bound to "resist force" by force."

What's a formal alternative to "resist force"?

A more formal alternative to "resist force" is to "withstand pressure", which emphasizes the ability to endure a force without yielding.

Is there a difference between "resist force" and "counter force"?

"Resist force" implies opposing or preventing a force from having an effect, while "counter force" suggests applying an opposing force to neutralize or balance it. "Resist" is about prevention, while "counter" is about neutralization.

When should I use "resist force" versus "oppose force"?

"Resist force" typically refers to withstanding or preventing a physical force, while "oppose force" can also refer to resisting metaphorical or abstract forms of power or influence. The context determines the best choice.