Persist: meaning, definitions and examples

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persist

[pərˈsɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in a situation

Continue firmly or obstinately in an opinion or a course of action in spite of difficulty, opposition, or failure.

Synonyms

continue, insist, persevere.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
persist	Use 'persist' when someone keeps trying to do something, even if it's difficult or people are telling them to stop. It can have a slightly negative connotation if the persistence is seen as stubbornness. Despite the rejection letters, she persisted in applying for her dream job. He persisted in his efforts, even though they told him it was a waste of time.
persevere	Use 'persevere' when someone continues doing something despite difficulties or delay in achieving success. It has a positive connotation and emphasizes determination. She persevered through many hardships to complete her education. To succeed in this field, you must persevere.
continue	Use 'continue' when talking about someone keeping on with an action or process without stopping. It's neutral and doesn't carry negative or positive connotations. She will continue her studies next semester. The rain continued throughout the night.
insist	Use 'insist' when someone demands something firmly. It often implies that the person is being very firm or even forceful about their demand. Can be used positively or negatively depending on context. He insisted on paying for dinner. She insisted that she was right, despite the evidence.

Examples of usage

He persisted in his belief that he was right, despite the evidence against him.
She persisted with her studies, even when it seemed too challenging.
We must persist in our efforts to achieve our goal.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in asking or demanding something

Continue firmly or obstinately to request or ask for something, in spite of refusal or opposition.

Synonyms

demand, insist, press.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
persist	Used when someone continues firmly with a course of action despite difficulty or opposition. She tried to ignore him, but he persisted in asking questions. Even though it was raining, they persisted with their outdoor activities.
insist	Used when someone firmly states or insists on something happening, often repeating their request or statement. Can sometimes seem more imposing than 'persuade'. He insisted that he was right. My parents insist that I call them every day.
demand	Appropriate when someone asks forcefully for something they feel they deserve or need, often implying a sense of entitlement. She demanded to see the manager. They demanded an explanation for the delay.
press	Appropriate for situations where someone is applying pressure to get a specific answer or result, often in a forceful or persistent way. The reporter pressed the politician for an answer. She pressed him to make a decision quickly.

Examples of usage

She persisted in asking for a raise, even though her boss kept saying no.
If you persist in your demands, you might eventually get what you want.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'persistere,' which means 'to stand firm' or 'to continue.'
It entered the English language in the early 15th century, originally meaning to remain steadfast.

Psychology

Studies show that persistence can greatly increase a person's chance of success, more so than natural talent in many cases.
Mindset plays a critical role; people who view challenges as opportunities are more likely to persist.

Pop Culture

'Persistence' is a popular theme in many stories, like 'The Little Engine That Could,' which showcases determination.
Successful figures in sports, arts, and business often share their stories of persistence despite failures.

Business

In entrepreneurship, persistence is deemed essential; many successful businesses faced multiple failures before succeeding.
Companies often encourage a culture of persistence to drive innovation, as persistence can lead to breakthrough ideas.

Science

Researchers have found that certain species in nature exhibit persistence in their survival strategies, adapting to harsh conditions.
Studies have shown that plants can persist in unfriendly environments by developing unique survival mechanisms.

Translations

Translations of the word "persist" in other languages:

🇵🇹 persistir

🇮🇳 अटल रहना

🇩🇪 durchhalten

🇮🇩 bertahan

🇺🇦 наполягати

🇵🇱 trwać

🇯🇵 持続する

🇫🇷 persister

🇪🇸 persistir

🇹🇷 ısrar etmek

🇰🇷 지속하다

🇸🇦 يثابر

🇨🇿 vytrvat

🇸🇰 vytrvať

🇨🇳 坚持

🇸🇮 vztrajati

🇮🇸 þrauka

🇰🇿 табандылық таныту

🇬🇪 გამძლეობა

🇦🇿 israr etmək

🇲🇽 persistir

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,817 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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7814 blend
7815 undergone
7816 fauna
7817 persist
7818 bail
7819 royalty
7820 detachment
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