The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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persist

verb

/pərˈsɪst/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of persist

To continue firmly or steadfastly in a particular course of action, belief, or attitude, despite challenges, obstacles, or opposition.
"Despite the obstacles, she continued to persist with her studies."

Detailed meaning of persist

It implies a determined and unwavering commitment to a goal or objective. When someone persists, they display resilience and perseverance, refusing to give up or be discouraged by setbacks or difficulties. This action may involve repeatedly attempting or pursuing something, maintaining a specific mindset or stance, or enduring through hardships and adversity. To persist is to demonstrate a tenacious spirit, an unyielding resolve, and a refusal to be deterred by obstacles in the pursuit of one's desired outcome. It often involves sustained effort, dedication, and the willingness to confront and overcome challenges in order to achieve success or reach a desired outcome.

Example sentences containing persist

1. Even amid fierce opposition, you must persist to achieve great things in life.
2. When dreams are bold, barriers emerge, yet we persist to conquer the heights.
3. She chose to persist, facing adversity with unwavering courage and determination.
4. If you persist, no mountain is too high and no challenge too overwhelming.
5. To persist through trials is to weave the fabric of enduring success stories.
6. Fears may haunt and doubts may scream, but persist, for dawn awaits the brave.

History and etymology of persist

The verb 'persist' finds its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'persistere,' which is a combination of 'per,' meaning 'through,' and 'sistere,' meaning 'to stand' or 'to stop.' In its original Latin sense, 'persistere' meant to stand firm or remain stationary, and it later evolved to convey the idea of continuing firmly or steadfastly in a particular course of action, belief, or attitude, despite challenges, obstacles, or opposition. As Latin developed into Middle English, 'persist' emerged in the English language, retaining its sense of unwavering determination and resilience. The etymology of 'persist' underscores its historical connection to the act of standing one's ground and maintaining a steadfast commitment to a chosen path or conviction, even in the face of adversity.

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Further usage examples of persist

1. Stars only appear to those who persist in the deepest, darkest hours of night.
2. When the storms of life assail, persist; for in perseverance, strength is found.
3. To persist is to dance with fear, embracing every step with courage and grace.
4. Amidst the noise of doubt and fear, heroes persist, their eyes fixed on the prize.
5. When the winds of change blow harshly, roots of conviction persist, unshaken.
6. Rivers carve canyons not by power, but because they persist, etching history.
7. In the garden of aspirations, thorns abound; nevertheless, we persist, unbowed.
8. We persist, not because the path is easy, but because the destination is worthy.
9. Painters create masterpieces, not in a moment, but as they persist through time.
10. Every stroke of genius, every epic tale, echoes the power to persist and prevail.
11. Castles in the sky begin as stones underfoot; to build them, one must persist.
12. Persist, for in the symphony of existence, each note of endurance is majestic.
13. To touch the stars, let the soul persist, climbing heavens with tenacity’s kiss.
14. Like waves that shape the shore, when we persist, our mark is eternal, and more.
15. Despite the challenges, he continues to persist in pursuing his dreams.
16. The students persist in their efforts to excel academically.
17. The team's determination and perseverance allowed them to persist until the final whistle.
18. Despite the criticism, she chose to persist in her chosen career path.
19. The athlete's strong willpower enabled him to persist through grueling training sessions.
20. They persist in their belief that hard work will lead to success.
21. The author's dedication to writing allowed them to persist through multiple rejections.
22. Despite the setbacks, they persist in their commitment to making a positive change.
23. The hiker's determination to reach the summit made them persist through difficult terrain.
24. Despite the doubts, she decided to persist in pursuing her entrepreneurial aspirations.
25. The researchers persist in their pursuit of scientific breakthroughs.
26. The activists persist in their fight for social justice and equality.
27. The artist's passion for their craft allowed them to persist despite the challenges.
28. The organization's volunteers persist in their efforts to support the community.