Definition of Persistent
Quick Meaning of Persistent
Keeping going and not giving up even when things are hard. Not letting obstacles stop you; stubbornly continuing effort.
Detailed Definition of Persistent
Continuing firmly despite difficulty, opposition, or failure; refusing to be discouraged or deterred.
How to Pronounce Persistent
Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: per-SIS-tent. The 'per' at the start is quick and unstressed, the middle syllable is clear and stressed, and the final syllable is short.
Watch out: Some learners say 'per-SIS-tunt' (wrong vowel sound in final syllable) or stress the first syllable (PER-sis-tent). Correct: per-SIS-tent.
Origin and Etymology of Persistent
From Latin 'persistens' (continuing steadfastly). 'Per-' (through) + 'sistens' (standing/remaining). Entered English in 16th century. Related to 'persist' (continue despite difficulty).
How to Use Persistent in a Sentence
Each example shows “persistent” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Her persistent efforts to improve her English finally paid off when she achieved a Band 8 score.”
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“The persistent cough lasted for three weeks and required medical attention.”
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“Despite persistent criticism, the CEO maintained her controversial policy.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Persistent
Common Synonyms for Persistent
Smart Synonyms for Persistent — When to Use Each
- determined
- Emphasizes firm intention and resolve; more positive tone
- tenacious
- Emphasizes holding on firmly; often used for people
- relentless
- Emphasizes intensity and refusal to slow down; slightly
- obstinate
- Similar meaning but carries negative connotation of stubbornness
Antonyms of Persistent
Common Collocations with Persistent
These phrases pair with “persistent” in everyday English:
- persistent effort
- persistent problem
- persistent cough
- persistent demand
- persistent threat
Common Mistakes When Using Persistent
Even fluent speakers slip up with “persistent”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She is persistent to try again.
- ✓ Correct: She is persistent in trying again. / She persists in trying again.
- Why: Use 'persistent in' not 'persistent to'. Or use the verb 'persist in' instead.
- ✗ Wrong: The problem persist even after repair.
- ✓ Correct: The problem persists even after repair.
- Why: Use the verb form 'persists' (third person singular) not the adjective 'persist'.
- ✗ Wrong: His persistent to succeed was admirable.
- ✓ Correct: His persistence in succeeding was admirable. / His persistent efforts to succeed were admirable.
- Why: Use the noun 'persistence' or adjective 'persistent' before a noun, not as part of a prepositional phrase in this way.
Other Forms of Persistent
- Noun: persistence
- Verb: persist
- Adjective: persistent
- Adverb: persistently
Frequently Asked Questions About Persistent
What is the meaning of "Persistent"?
Keeping going and not giving up even when things are hard. Not letting obstacles stop you; stubbornly continuing effort.
How do you pronounce "Persistent"?
The IPA is /pərˈsɪstənt/. Stress the second syllable: per-SIS-tent. The 'per' at the start is quick and unstressed, the middle syllable is clear and stressed, and the final syllable is short.
What part of speech is "Persistent"?
"Persistent" is an adjective at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Persistent"?
Common synonyms include determined, tenacious, steadfast.
How do you use "Persistent" in a sentence?
For example: "Her persistent efforts to improve her English finally paid off when she achieved a Band 8 score."