perseverance
pur-suh-VEER-unss
/ˌpɜː.sɪˈvɪə.rəns/
Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.
Focuses on overcoming obstacles, setbacks, and long periods of struggle.
The story behind the word. Rooted in Latin 'severus' (severe or strict). To persevere originally meant to remain strictly devoted to a severe or difficult standard without wavering, no matter how hard conditions became.
Word relationships
- persistence: Persistence can sometimes carry a negative connotation of stubbornness, whereas perseverance is inspiring.
- tenacity: Tenacity emphasizes a tight grip on a goal, while perseverance emphasizes long-term struggle.
- apathy: Apathy indicates lack of interest or enthusiasm.
- capitulation: Capitulation means surrendering or yielding.
Commonly confused with
- preservation: Preservation means keeping something in its original state, while perseverance means enduring hardship.
Word family
- persevere (verb): To continue in a course of action despite difficulties.
- persevering (adjective): Continuing with determination.
Collocations
- show perseverance
- require perseverance
- grim perseverance
- spirit of perseverance
Idioms & expressions
- hang in there
- stick to one's guns
Example sentences
- "It took years of perseverance before the medical team finally discovered an effective vaccine." Scientific discovery
- "Her perseverance through knee injuries allowed her to compete in the Olympics." Athletic achievement
Memory hook
PER-SEVER-ance: SEVERE difficulties will not stop you from continuing. Enduring severe hardship.
When not to use
Do not use to describe simple repetition of easy tasks.
Fun facts
- NASA named its 2020 Mars rover 'Perseverance' after a nationwide student essay contest.
Related words
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