highly tenacious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "highly tenacious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is very persistent or determined in achieving a goal. Example: "Despite numerous setbacks, her highly tenacious spirit kept her pursuing her dreams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Holder, a son of the Bronx who cut his legal teeth in both public and private practice, proved to be a highly tenacious and dogged AG.

The Guardian

The apparent failure to do so, is due to highly tenacious surface oxides.

Electrochimica Acta

CF sputum is highly tenacious and typically contains a large amount of inflammatory cells, primarily neutrophils resulting in release of large amounts of human DNA which may interfere with qPCR detection of relatively small quantities of bacterial DNA[36].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"He's extremely tenacious.

The New York Times

As early as 1973, Characklis (4) studied microbial slimes in industrial water systems and showed that they were not only very tenacious but also highly resistant to disinfectants such as chlorine.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Like many other highly ambitious people, Villaraigosa presents his tenacious ascent as a kind of accidental journey.

The New Yorker

A tenacious journalist does some digging and uncovers highly suspect -- perhaps criminal -- conduct by a top CPS/Chicago Board of Education official.

Huffington Post

Someone with a tenacious commitment to serving the community, while being highly skilled in the art of facilitation.

The Guardian

Roach applies her tenacious reporting to the laboratory dissection of sex, producing an enlightening, highly amusing romp.

The New York Times - Books

"He's a good athlete, he's tenacious and he's got good footballing qualities, which is why he's so highly regarded at his parent club".

BBC

"He was tenacious.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "highly tenacious" to describe qualities that combine persistence with a strong grip or hold on something, whether it's an idea, a belief, or a physical substance. This implies that whatever is being held onto is difficult to release.

Common error

Avoid using "highly tenacious" in situations where simple persistence would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound overly formal or even slightly pretentious. Consider whether "persistent" or "determined" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "highly tenacious" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, where "highly" modifies the adjective "tenacious", intensifying its meaning. It describes a quality of being extremely persistent or clinging strongly to something. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

66%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "highly tenacious" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English that intensifies the meaning of "tenacious", indicating an exceptional degree of persistence or grip. Ludwig AI validates this. While the phrase appears mainly in scientific and news contexts, it's essential to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse in simple scenarios where "persistent" or "determined" might suffice. To improve your writing, consider alternatives like ""extremely persistent"" or ""very determined"" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. By considering these points, you can effectively use "highly tenacious" to add emphasis and precision to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly persistent

A more direct synonym emphasizing continuation despite difficulty.

extremely persistent

Emphasizes the unwavering nature of persistence.

very determined

Focuses on the resolute decision to achieve a goal.

remarkably steadfast

Highlights unwavering loyalty or commitment.

incredibly resolute

Stresses the firmness of purpose.

exceptionally dogged

Suggests relentless pursuit, often against obstacles.

unusually persevering

Highlights the effort and dedication over time.

intensely driven

Emphasizes the internal motivation and ambition.

uncommonly unwavering

Focuses on the stability and lack of fluctuation.

quite firm

Indicates a strong and unyielding stance.

FAQs

How can I use "highly tenacious" in a sentence?

You can use "highly tenacious" to describe something that clings strongly or someone who is extremely persistent. For instance, "The athlete displayed a "highly tenacious" grip during the competition", or "The detective was known for his "highly tenacious" pursuit of justice".

What are some alternatives to "highly tenacious"?

Alternatives to "highly tenacious" include "extremely persistent", "very determined", and "remarkably steadfast depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey".

Is it more appropriate to use "highly tenacious" or simply "tenacious"?

"Highly tenacious" emphasizes a greater degree of persistence or grip compared to just "tenacious". Use "highly tenacious" when you want to stress the exceptional strength of the persistence or grip. Otherwise, "tenacious" may suffice.

In what contexts is "highly tenacious" most often used?

The phrase "highly tenacious" is often used in professional contexts, such as news and media or formal communications, and in scientific writing to describe particularly stubborn or persistent qualities or behaviors. However, the context should guide the choice between ""highly tenacious"" and its alternatives.