verb
persevere
pur-suh-VEER
Persevere (verb) means to keep trying to achieve something despite obstacles or discouragement. Example: “Despite three rejections, she persevered and eventually landed the job.”
verb
1
To keep trying to achieve something despite obstacles or discouragement.
"Despite three rejections, she persevered and eventually landed the job."
"He persevered with his physical therapy even when progress was slow."
How to use persevere
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo keep going and not give up.
Common pairings
persevere with something
persevere through hardship
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- perseveres
- Past tense
- persevered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Despite three rejections, she _____ and eventually landed the job.
Etymology
From Latin perseverare, "to continue steadfastly," from per- ("thoroughly") + severus ("strict, serious").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for persevere
See all rhymes for persevere →Frequently asked questions
What does “persevere” mean?
The word “persevere” means to keep trying to achieve something despite obstacles or discouragement. In plain terms, to keep going and not give up.
How do you pronounce “persevere”?
“Persevere” is pronounced pur-suh-VEER (/ˌpɝ.səˈviɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “persevere” in a sentence?
Here is “persevere” used in a sentence: “Despite three rejections, she persevered and eventually landed the job.”
What is another word for “persevere”?
Words with a similar meaning to “persevere” include abide, astand, bear up, carry on, continue and endure.
What is the opposite of “persevere”?
The opposite of “persevere” — its antonyms — are cease, desist, give up, quit and stop.
What part of speech is “persevere”?
“Persevere” is a verb.
Where does the word “persevere” come from?
The word “persevere” comes from Latin. From Latin perseverare, "to continue steadfastly," from per- ("thoroughly") + severus ("strict, serious").
