persist

/pərˈsɪst/
verbIntermediate continue firmly despite difficulty
general

to continue firmly or obstinately, especially in spite of opposition or difficulty

The team persisted in their efforts to solve the problem.

The team kept trying to solve the problem even when it was tough.

He persisted in his belief that he was right.

He continued to believe he was right, even when others disagreed.

💡

Often used to describe determination or perseverance in the face of obstacles.

Collocations

persist into continue doing something despite difficultiespersist withto keep trying or doing something

Related Phrases

persist in errorphrase
to continue making a mistake
persist in one's waysphrase
to continue behaving in a particular manner

💡Pro Tip

Common Collocations

Use 'persist in' for actions and 'persist with' for efforts or attempts.

Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

In formal contexts, 'persist' can sound stubborn; consider 'persevere' for a more positive tone.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English persisten, from Old French persister, from Latin persistere, from per- (thoroughly) + sistere (to stand).

📝Usage Notes

Often used with 'in' or 'with' to specify what is being continued. Can imply stubbornness if used negatively.

Word Breakdown

per-
thoroughly
prefix
+
-sist
to stand
root
English Dictionary