persist
puh-SIHST
Persist (verb) means to continue doing something despite difficulty or opposition. Example: “She persisted with her research even after the funding was cut.”
verb
1
To continue doing something despite difficulty or opposition.
"She persisted with her research even after the funding was cut."
"If the pain persists for more than a week, see a doctor."
"Despite many setbacks, the young climber persisted until she reached the top."
2
To continue existing.
"Rumors about the merger have persisted for months."
"The smell of smoke persisted in the room long after the fire."
"Old customs often persist in small villages even when the world changes."
How to use persist
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo keep going, or to keep happening, without stopping.
Common pairings
symptoms persist
persist in doing something
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- persists
- Past tense
- persisted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ with her research even after the funding was cut.
Etymology
From Latin persistere, "to stand firm," from per- ("thoroughly") + sistere ("to stand").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “persist” mean?
The word “persist” means to continue doing something despite difficulty or opposition. In plain terms, to keep going, or to keep happening, without stopping.
How do you pronounce “persist”?
“Persist” is pronounced puh-SIHST (/pɚˈsɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “persist” in a sentence?
Here is “persist” used in a sentence: “She persisted with her research even after the funding was cut.”
What is another word for “persist”?
Words with a similar meaning to “persist” include remain, abide, aby, astand, endure and go on.
What is the opposite of “persist”?
The opposite of “persist” — its antonyms — are break, yield and fail.
What part of speech is “persist”?
“Persist” is a verb.
Where does the word “persist” come from?
The word “persist” comes from Latin. From Latin persistere, "to stand firm," from per- ("thoroughly") + sistere ("to stand").
Is “persist” a common word?
“Persist” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
