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Pertinacity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ช
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pertinacity

[หŒpษœหrtษชหˆnรฆsษชti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

determined quality

Pertinacity refers to the quality of being persistent or stubborn in holding onto an opinion or course of action. It is often associated with a dogged determination to achieve a goal, despite difficulties or opposition. This trait can be seen positively as tenacity or negatively as inflexibility. People who exhibit pertinacity do not easily give up and are often admired for their resolve. This characteristic is vital in various aspects of life, including personal growth, career advancement, and overcoming challenges.

Synonyms

determination, doggedness, persistence, stubbornness, tenacity.

Examples of usage

  • Her pertinacity in pursuing her dreams inspired everyone.
  • The scientist showed great pertinacity in his research, despite numerous setbacks.
  • His pertinacity in negotiations eventually led to a successful deal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that pertinacity is often linked to resilience, allowing individuals to overcome challenges.
  • Persistent people usually possess a strong growth mindset, believing that effort leads to improvement.
  • The trait can lead to success but may also cause stress if pursued excessively without flexibility.

Literature

  • Many protagonists in classic literature embody pertinacity, often facing insurmountable odds yet persisting in their quests.
  • In Shakespeare's works, characters like Hamlet demonstrate pertinacity in their pursuit of revenge and truth.
  • Modern novels often celebrate characters with strong pertinacity, highlighting their journeys through adversity.

Business

  • In entrepreneurship, pertinacity is a vital trait for navigating failures and setbacks, often determining ultimate success.
  • Successful leaders display this quality by firmly voicing their vision, rallying teams even when faced with doubt.
  • Companies that embrace pertinacity in their culture tend to innovate and remain competitive in volatile markets.

Pop Culture

  • Films often depict heroes with pertinacity, showcasing their relentless efforts to achieve justice, like in superhero movies.
  • Reality TV shows sometimes highlight contestantsโ€™ pertinacity, capturing their fierce determination to win.
  • Songs often use themes of pertinacity, celebrating individuals who keep fighting for their dreams against all odds.

Origin of 'pertinacity'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'pertinax', meaning 'stubborn' or 'holding fast'.
  • It combines 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'tenax', meaning 'holding' or 'to hold tightly'.
  • The transformation into English included influences from medieval Latin, emphasizing its connotation of stubbornness.

The word 'pertinacity' originates from the Latin term 'pertinacitas', which means 'stubbornness, persistence'. This Latin term derives from 'pertinax', which translates to 'stubborn' or 'obstinate'. The root of this Latin word can be traced back to 'pertinere', meaning 'to hold fast to, to pertain'. The term made its way into Middle French as 'pertinacite' before entering the English lexicon in the late 14th century. Over time, 'pertinacity' has maintained its meaning related to dogged persistence and obsessive dedication to a cause or purpose. Its use in literature and common speech has often been associated with both admirable and negative qualities, showcasing the complexity of being persistently steadfast.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,472, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.