persevere

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "persevere" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any situation when you want to describe someone continuing to do something despite difficulties or setbacks. Example: She persevered despite the obstacles and eventually achieved her goal.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Instead he urged parents to persevere in supporting the school until the government takes it over.

The Guardian

During her epic address, Davis was equipped with the trainers, a back brace and according to recent reports, a catheter, to help her persevere with her filibuster until the legislative session was eventually timed out and the bill, which would effectively close dozens of Texas abortion clinics, was significantly delayed.

The Guardian

"It's a real marmite city, but if you persevere you are rewarded with views that the country's only real ocean city can give"); Manchester ("there's just too much to say about the city I call home," laments munichguy21); and even little old London, with "the magic ingredient of what makes London great.

The Guardian

But even when work gets difficult, if you're patient and persevere, you'll keep up.

The Guardian

"The UK's ability to generate tax receipts has shrunk considerably since the financial crisis, meaning that the next incoming government will have to persevere with a credible plan to improve public finances.

The Guardian - Business

Estate agents often declined to present me to landlords, but you persevere until you earn acceptance.Though it is possible to acquire nationality here, Japanese still chiefly tie the concept to one of blood, not residence.

The Economist

But if he is serious about battling graft, he must persevere.

The Economist

Entrepreneurs are people who find ways round business difficulties; they persevere with a business plan at times when others run for the shelter of full-time employment elsewhere.They are also opportunistic, sometimes ruthless to a fault.

The Economist

Democracies need the courage to withdraw from wars that bring no good, but also to persevere in just ones even when the end is not yet in sight.

The Economist

It is, in short, a tall order to read.But persevere.

The Economist

His feel for the local culture, and fluent Portuguese, make it easier for him to adapt what he learned about running airlines in America to the Brazilian market.Missionary work also teaches young Mormons to persevere despite harsh odds.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "persevere" to convey a sense of determined continuation despite significant obstacles. It's particularly effective when highlighting resilience and commitment to a goal.

Common error

Avoid using "persevere" when the continued effort is clearly unproductive or harmful. Stubbornly sticking to a failing plan isn't perseverance; it's a lack of adaptability. Make sure the goal is still worthwhile.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "persevere" is as an intransitive verb, indicating an action of continuing or persisting without a direct object. It often describes the act of pushing forward despite challenges. Ludwig provides examples where "persevere" is used to urge action or describe a determined effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

23%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "persevere" is a versatile intransitive verb that conveys the idea of continuing steadfastly despite challenges. Ludwig AI indicates that the word is grammatically correct and suitable for use in various contexts, particularly when highlighting resilience and commitment. The word is frequently found in news and media, as well as in scientific publications and business documents. When writing, it's important to use "persevere" to emphasize determined continuation. Alternatives like "persist" or "endure" can be used depending on the specific shade of meaning you want to convey. Be aware of the difference between perseverance and stubbornness; "persevere" should be used when the continued effort is productive and contributes to a worthwhile goal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persist

Focuses on continuing despite resistance, emphasizing stubbornness or determination.

keep going

Offers a general encouragement to continue without giving up.

carry on

Implies a continuation of an activity or task, often in a steadfast manner.

hold on

Suggests enduring a difficult situation, emphasizing resilience.

press on

Emphasizes forward movement despite obstacles, conveying a sense of urgency.

stay the course

Advises maintaining a planned direction or strategy, especially when faced with challenges.

stand firm

Highlights unwavering resolve, often in defending a position or belief.

remain steadfast

Stresses unwavering loyalty and commitment to a cause or goal.

endure

Focuses on withstanding hardship and suffering, implying resilience and strength.

keep at it

Offers informal encouragement to continue working towards a goal, highlighting effort.

FAQs

How can I use "persevere" in a sentence?

"Persevere" is a verb that means to continue steadfastly despite difficulties. For example, "Despite the setbacks, she decided to "persevere" until she achieved her goal."

What are some synonyms for "persevere"?

Alternatives to "persevere" include "persist", "endure", "keep going", or "carry on", each carrying a slightly different nuance depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "persevere" and "persist"?

While both words mean to continue despite difficulty, "persevere" often implies a more prolonged and determined effort, whereas "persist" can sometimes suggest a more stubborn or less flexible approach. You could use "persevere" when the situation requires overcoming significant obstacles with a positive attitude.

When is it appropriate to use "persevere" over other similar words?

Use "persevere" when you want to emphasize the admirable quality of continuing in the face of adversity. It suggests a noble or commendable dedication, making it suitable for contexts where effort and resilience are valued.