Resilient

/rɪˈzɪliənt/intermediateadjective

Floods, layoffs, and rough seasons get described with softer words until you want to say something bounced instead of broke, without sounding like a poster.

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Meaning

Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions; flexible and adaptable.

Memory trick

Think "RE-SILENT" = bouncing back silently/strongly. Or "RESILIENT = RE (again) + SALIENT (jumping)", jumping back again.

Examples

1

Children are remarkably resilient and can adapt to new situations quickly.

2

The city proved resilient, rebuilding after the natural disaster.

3

A resilient mindset helps people overcome challenges and setbacks.

Synonyms

toughstronghardyrobustadaptableflexibledurable

Antonyms

fragileweakbrittledelicatevulnerable

Etymology

From Latin resilire "to rebound, recoil," from re- "back" + salire "to jump, leap."

Usage Notes

Widely used in psychology, business, and personal development contexts to describe the ability to bounce back from adversity.

Real-life contexts

1

Describe people bouncing back: "She's resilient after that setback."

2

Use for systems or materials: "This fabric is resilient and durable."

3

Great for motivational contexts: "Building a resilient mindset takes practice."

Common Mistakes

Resilience is not just about being tough, it also involves adaptability and the ability to recover.

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Quick Facts

Part of Speech

adjective

Difficulty

intermediate

Monthly Searches

~135,000

Resilient: Sharp Definition, Examples & Memory Trick | WordFlippin