persist in trying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "persist in trying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of continuing to make an effort despite difficulties or challenges. Example: "Even after several setbacks, she decided to persist in trying to achieve her goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

No doubt managers will persist in trying to go global.

The Economist

"David certainly wanted us to persist in trying to bring out the truth," Mr. Schonemann said.

The New York Times

Because we do not appreciate this dynamic, we persist in trying to propitiate rather than confront them.

The New York Times - Books

Beneath the book and the sweater is the item that makes Lakis persist in trying to find his bag.

The Guardian

Still, they persist in trying to find more flowers, afraid that if they don't, they'll be charged with antirevolutionary crimes.

The Guardian - Books

State officials said they planned to persist in trying to force Amtrak to make good on the agreement.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Gawker "desperately persisted in trying to destroy people without basis.

The New York Times

A keener langlauf convert might have persisted in trying to master the elusive skating stride.

The Guardian - Travel

Enduring insults and interruptions from the scrum, he persisted in trying to explain his perspective.

The New Yorker

As well as anyone, Hansen ought to know this; still, he persists in trying to make contact.

The New Yorker

Caldwell moved her son back to Columbus and persisted in trying to keep his career prospects alive.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "persist in trying". While grammatically correct, it may sound slightly formal in casual conversation. Alternatives like "keep trying" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "persist in trying" in very casual or informal settings where simpler phrases like "keep trying" or "continue trying" would be more natural and effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "persist in trying" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a continuous action or effort. It specifically highlights the act of continuing to make an attempt, often in the face of challenges. This is supported by Ludwig, which validates its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

4%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "persist in trying" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that emphasizes continuous effort and determination. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it's most frequently found in news and media. Remember to consider your audience and choose simpler alternatives like "keep trying" for casual conversations. By avoiding overuse in informal settings, you can effectively use "persist in trying" to convey a sense of resilience and commitment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continue to try

Replaces "persist" with a more common and less formal verb, reducing the intensity of the effort.

keep trying

An even more informal alternative, suitable for everyday conversation.

persevere in attempting

Synonymous change that replaces "trying" with "attempting", adding a slight formal style.

endeavor to try

Introduces a more formal and somewhat redundant tone, emphasizing effort.

remain committed to trying

Emphasizes dedication and steadfastness in the effort.

stay persistent in one's attempts

Nominalizes the action, shifting focus to the quality of persistence.

press on with trying

Suggests forward movement and continued effort in a challenging situation.

hold on to trying

Highlights the act of maintaining the effort despite difficulty.

doggedly pursue

Focuses on unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of a goal.

tenaciously work at

Emphasizes strength and resilience in tackling a challenging task.

FAQs

How can I use "persist in trying" in a sentence?

Use "persist in trying" to emphasize continued effort despite obstacles. For example, "Despite numerous failures, she "persisted in trying" to achieve her goals".

What are some alternatives to "persist in trying"?

Alternatives include "continue to try", "keep trying", or "endeavor to try", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "persist in trying" or "persist to try"?

"Persist in trying" is the correct and more common form. "Persist" requires a preposition ("in") when followed by a gerund (a verb ending in -ing used as a noun).

What's the difference between "persist in trying" and "continue trying"?

"Persist in trying" implies a greater degree of difficulty or resistance that needs to be overcome, while "continue trying" simply means to carry on with an effort.