Perseverance: meaning, definitions and examples

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perseverance

[ˌpɜːr.səˈvɪər.əns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in achieving goals

Perseverance is the quality of continuing to try to achieve a particular aim despite difficulties or opposition.

Synonyms

determination, persistence, tenacity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
perseverance	Ideal for describing someone's continuous effort despite difficulties and setbacks, often over a long period of time. Her perseverance in completing the marathon despite the blistering heat was inspiring. The scientist's perseverance led to the groundbreaking discovery after years of research.
persistence	Describes someone's ongoing effort to continue an action or task, even when others might give up. It can occasionally carry a negative connotation if someone is unreasonably steadfast. His persistence in asking questions helped him understand the complex material. Despite numerous rejections, her persistence in job hunting finally paid off.
tenacity	Highlights someone's strong grip on an idea, goal, or task, showing not just determination but also stubborn firmness. Typically used in a positive sense but can imply stubbornness if overdone. His tenacity in pursuing justice for the victims was commendable. The team's tenacity led them to victory despite being the underdogs.
determination	Used when someone shows strong willpower and resolve to achieve something, particularly in the face of challenges. His determination to succeed drove him to study for hours every night. She showed great determination in recovering from her injury.

Examples of usage

She had to show great perseverance to make her way in a male-dominated profession.
His perseverance paid off in the end when he finally landed his dream job.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in overcoming obstacles

Perseverance is the ability to keep going and pushing through challenges, even when things get tough.

Synonyms

endurance, resilience, steadfastness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
perseverance	Used when emphasizing continuing effort and determination in achieving a goal despite difficulties or delays. Her perseverance in studying late at night paid off when she passed her exams with flying colors
resilience	Best used when talking about the ability to recover quickly from setbacks, adversity, or difficulties. Her resilience was evident when she quickly bounced back from the unexpected loss of her job
steadfastness	Can be used to describe unwavering loyalty, support, or resolve, often highlighting firmness and reliability. His steadfastness in supporting his friend during tough times showed true friendship
endurance	Applicable in situations where lasting through a prolonged period of hardship or physical strain is the focus. Running a marathon requires exceptional physical and mental endurance

Examples of usage

Her perseverance in the face of adversity inspired everyone around her.
The key to success is often a combination of talent and perseverance.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'perseverantia', meaning 'steadfastness' or 'persistence'.
It combines 'per-' (meaning through) and 'severare' (to observe or keep), suggesting staying the course.
It was first recorded in English around the 14th century, showing its long-standing importance.

Psychology

Studies show that individuals who practice perseverance often achieve higher goals.
Emotional resilience, a key aspect of perseverance, helps people cope with challenges effectively.
Practicing growth mindset can enhance perseverance, as it encourages viewing failures as opportunities to learn.

Literature

In 'The Little Engine That Could', the theme of perseverance shines as the little train repeats, 'I think I can.'
Homer's 'Odyssey' exemplifies perseverance through Odysseus's long journey home despite numerous obstacles.
Emily Dickinson often wrote about the importance of persistence in her poetry, emphasizing enduring through life's challenges.

Pop Culture

The character Rocky Balboa from the 'Rocky' film series embodies perseverance as he trains hard to overcome his challenges.
The motto 'Just keep swimming' from the movie 'Finding Nemo' promotes the idea of not giving up.
In the world of sports, many athletes who succeeded, like Michael Phelps, often share stories of their perseverance through setbacks.

History

Nelson Mandela is a powerful example of perseverance, remaining steadfast in his fight against apartheid for 27 years.
Thomas Edison famously stated, 'I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work' as he persevered towards inventing the light bulb.
The American civil rights movement showcased immense perseverance from leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., who fought for equality despite great opposition.

Translations

Translations of the word "perseverance" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perseverança

🇮🇳 दृढ़ता

🇩🇪 Durchhaltevermögen

🇮🇩 ketekunan

🇺🇦 наполегливість

🇵🇱 wytrwałość

🇯🇵 忍耐 (にんたい)

🇫🇷 persévérance

🇪🇸 perseverancia

🇹🇷 azim

🇰🇷 인내 (innae)

🇸🇦 مثابرة

🇨🇿 vytrvalost

🇸🇰 vytrvalosť

🇨🇳 毅力 (yìlì)

🇸🇮 vztrajnost

🇮🇸 þrautseigja

🇰🇿 табандылық

🇬🇪 მტკიცეობა

🇦🇿 səbir

🇲🇽 perseverancia

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,513, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
11510 palpable
11511 angrily
11512 silicate
11513 perseverance
11514 mentality
11515 vows
11516 athlete
...