should be resisted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should be resisted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions, behaviors, or ideas that one believes should be opposed or fought against. Example: "In the face of injustice, complacency should be resisted to ensure that change occurs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

That should be resisted.

The Economist

These efforts should be resisted.

The New York Times

But it should be resisted.

The Economist

The temptation to mourn should be resisted.

The New York Times

The temptation should be resisted, though.

Independent

This backlash should be resisted.

The New York Times

If so this should be resisted.

The Guardian

This attack on local democracy should be resisted.

Independent

But this is a temptation that should be resisted.

The Economist

But such thinking should be resisted for other reasons.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is an unjust law that should be resisted.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the intensity of the resistance implied by "should be resisted". If a milder response is more appropriate, consider alternatives like "should be questioned" or "should be reconsidered".

Common error

Avoid using "should be resisted" when a more nuanced or balanced perspective is necessary. Overusing it in situations that require compromise or further exploration can weaken your credibility. Instead, opt for phrases that encourage discussion or critical evaluation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should be resisted" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing advisability or necessity of opposition. According to Ludwig AI, it is often used to convey that an action or idea warrants active resistance. Examples show its use in various contexts, from political issues to personal temptations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "should be resisted" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something ought to be opposed. According to Ludwig, it appears most frequently in news and media, and science contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to clearly identify what warrants resistance and to consider the intensity of the opposition implied. Alternatives like "ought to be opposed" or "must be fought against" can provide subtle variations in meaning. However, overuse of this phrase, especially in situations requiring nuance, should be avoided to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ought to be opposed

Replaces "should" with "ought to", conveying a similar sense of obligation or advisability in opposing something.

should be rejected

Similar to "merits rejection", but more direct and less suggestive of underlying reasons.

must be fought against

Emphasizes a more forceful and active opposition compared to the original phrase.

needs to be challenged

Suggests the necessity of confronting or questioning something, rather than outright resisting it.

has to be countered

Focuses on neutralizing or offsetting something, implying a more strategic approach to resistance.

demands opposition

Highlights the compelling need for resistance, framing it as a necessary response.

warrants defiance

Implies a justification or reason for resisting, suggesting that the situation calls for a bold refusal.

merits rejection

Focuses on the act of dismissing or refusing to accept something, rather than actively fighting against it.

calls for prevention

Shifts the focus to proactively stopping something from happening, rather than reacting to it.

requires avoidance

Suggests steering clear of something, indicating a strategy of evasion rather than direct confrontation.

FAQs

What does "should be resisted" mean?

The phrase "should be resisted" means that something (an action, a policy, an idea, etc.) ought to be opposed or fought against because it is undesirable or harmful.

How can I use "should be resisted" in a sentence?

You can use "should be resisted" to express your opinion that something must be opposed. For example: "This unjust law "should be resisted"."

What are some alternatives to "should be resisted"?

Some alternatives to "should be resisted" include "ought to be opposed", "must be fought against", or "needs to be challenged", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "should be resisted"?

It is appropriate to use "should be resisted" when you want to strongly advocate against something you believe is wrong, harmful, or unjust. Ensure that your reasons for resistance are clear and well-supported.