# resilient

**Pronunciation:** /rɪˈzɪl.i.ənt/ · rih-ZIL-yuhnt

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** adjective

## Meaning 1: when describing quick recovery

Returning quickly to normal after damaging events or conditions.

## Examples

- She remained resilient after the setback and submitted a new application the following week.
- The town proved resilient, restoring its water service soon after the storm.
- The shop proved resilient and reopened two weeks after the flood.

## Meaning 2: when describing physical objects

Returning quickly to an original shape after being bent, stretched, or compressed.

## Examples

- The shoe features a resilient rubber sole designed to absorb impact during running.
- Mattress manufacturers use resilient foam that regains its shape over years of daily use.
- This plastic material is highly resilient against repeated bending without cracking.

## Meaning 3: in materials science

Having the specific mechanical capacity to absorb energy when deformed under stress.

## Examples

- Engineers selected a resilient alloy capable of absorbing sudden mechanical shocks.
- The bridge components were tested to ensure the structure remained resilient under heavy dynamic loads.
- Advanced composites provide a more resilient framework for modern aerospace engineering.

## Synonyms

- tough — More informal, describing someone or something strong enough to endure hardship.
- adaptable — Focuses specifically on the ability to adjust smoothly to new conditions.
- hardy — Often used for plants, animals, or people capable of surviving harsh physical conditions.

## Antonyms

- fragile — Easily broken or damaged physically or emotionally.
- vulnerable — Open to physical or emotional attack, harm, or damage.

## Common patterns

- remain resilient — To stay strong and capable of recovery despite ongoing difficulties. — Despite the budget cuts, the department managed to remain resilient.
- highly resilient — Possessing an exceptional degree of adaptability or elasticity. — Tropical forests are surprisingly resilient when given time to regenerate naturally.

## Collocations

- resilient economy — Central bank policies helped maintain a resilient economy through global financial shifts.
- resilient spirit — Her resilient spirit inspired everyone who heard her story of overcoming adversity.

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