persistent
pur-SISS-tuhnt
/pəˈsɪs.tənt/
Continuing firmly in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.
Emphasizes duration and unceasing continuation over time.
The story behind the word. Composed of Latin 'per-' (thoroughly) and 'sistere' (to cause to stand or remain). It described someone who stands their ground continuously, refusing to sit down or back away regardless of circumstances.
Word relationships
- relentless: 'Relentless' sounds harsher and unyielding; 'persistent' simply denotes unceasing effort.
- continual: 'Continual' refers to recurring events; 'persistent' carries the element of human intent.
- intermittent: Stopping and starting at intervals.
- sporadic: Occurring irregularly or infrequently.
Commonly confused with
- consistent: 'Consistent' means doing things the same way; 'persistent' means continuing despite obstacles.
Word family
- persist (verb): Continue firmly in an opinion or course of action.
- persistence (noun): Firm continuance in a course of action.
Collocations
- persistent effort
- persistent rumors
- persistent rainfall
- persistent problem
Idioms & expressions
- chipping away at the block
Example sentences
- "The patient complained of a persistent cough that had lasted four weeks." Medical diagnosis
- "Her persistent phone calls eventually secured an interview with the CEO." Sales and negotiation
Memory hook
To PERSIST is to SISTER-STAND firmly through all difficulties. Persistent = thoroughly standing firm.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'tenacious', which focuses on strength of hold rather than continuous repetition.
Fun facts
- The root 'sistere' also gives us words like 'resist', 'consist', and 'assist'.
Related words
Explore more words
persist, Pertinacious, perseverance, Tenacious, Obstinate, tenacity
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