Opposition & Resistance Vocabulary

to hold or express opinions that differ from the majority

“Several justices dissented from the ruling.”

to raise doubts or objections; show reluctance

“She demurred when asked to take on more work.”

to hesitate or refuse to accept an idea

“Investors balked at the high price.”

to reject ungraciously; snub

“His offer of help was rebuffed coldly.”

to refuse to accept or be associated with

“The candidate repudiated the controversial remarks.”

to publicly declare to be wrong or evil

“World leaders denounced the attack.”

to publicly denounce; criticize openly

“Critics decried the decision as unjust.”

to express complete disapproval of

“The organization condemned the use of violence.”

to dispute the truth or validity of

“They attempted to impugn his credibility.”

to prove a statement or theory wrong

“She refuted every point of his argument.”

to claim or prove something false

“The defendant rebutted the prosecution's claims.”

to deny the truth of a statement

“The evidence contradicted his testimony.”

to deny or contradict a fact or statement

“No one could gainsay the obvious truth.”

to oppose or challenge

“She contested the will in court.”

to argue about; question the validity of

“Historians dispute the accuracy of the account.”

to conflict with; go against

“The action contravenes international law.”

to openly resist or refuse to obey

“She defied convention by pursuing her dreams.”

to openly disregard a rule or convention

“He flouted the dress code repeatedly.”

to prevent someone from accomplishing something

“Bad weather thwarted their plans.”

to erode the base or foundation of

“The scandal undermined public trust in the institution.”

protest against official policy

“The government crushed all signs of political dissidence.”

having an obstinately uncooperative attitude

“The recalcitrant employee refused to follow the new rules.”