sheer persistence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'sheer persistence' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the strength of someone's determination to achieve something despite facing obstacles or difficulties. For example, "Despite set-backs and difficulties, she was able to succeed because of her sheer persistence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sheer persistence helps.

The Guardian - Sport

How to absorb the sheer persistence of the threat?

The New Yorker

Above all, what comes through is Clinton's sheer persistence.

The Guardian - Books

Prayer and sheer persistence are pretty much all Brancatelli has to go on these days.

The New York Times - Magazine

Sheer persistence is the main attribute needed to crack the industry, he says.

The Guardian - Money

But then Li broke her with sheer persistence at the net.

The Guardian - Sport

He tracked down a competent janitorial service and bus company, and commandeered supplies with sheer persistence.

The New York Times

But eventually her sheer persistence wins her an appointment as a Jersey City meter maid.

The New York Times

I love the places in Cape Town where sheer persistence can yield hard-won treasures.

The Guardian - Travel

One note repeatedly sounded was the sheer persistence and pervasiveness of religion in American political life.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

(Every student had huge talent). It was sheer persistence those who practiced harder did better, and those who practiced insanely hard became wildly successful.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sheer persistence" to highlight how overcoming obstacles is due to continuous, unwavering effort rather than innate talent or luck. For example, “Her success was not due to talent alone, but to her "sheer persistence" in refining her skills.”

Common error

Avoid attributing success solely to "sheer persistence" without acknowledging other contributing factors like strategy, support, or opportunity. Overemphasizing persistence can diminish the value of these equally important elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sheer persistence" functions as a noun phrase, where "sheer" is an adjective intensifying the noun "persistence". It describes the quality of relentless and unwavering effort. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct to use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sheer persistence" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that emphasizes the importance of unwavering effort in achieving goals. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable in written English, and is most frequently found in News & Media contexts. While it's crucial for writers to highlight the strength of someone’s determination when using the phrase, remember not to neglect strategy, support, or opportunity as contributing factors, as it may lead to overemphasis. Alternative phrases, such as "unwavering determination" or "relentless perseverance", can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unwavering determination

Emphasizes the resolute and steadfast nature of the determination.

relentless perseverance

Highlights the continuous and forceful nature of the effort.

dogged tenacity

Focuses on the stubborn and persistent quality of the effort.

unstoppable drive

Suggests an inherent force that propels someone forward.

unyielding resolve

Emphasizes the firmness and inflexibility of the determination.

unflinching dedication

Highlights the unwavering commitment and devotion.

tireless effort

Focuses on the boundless energy and commitment.

consistent hard work

Underscores continuous and diligent application of effort.

sustained commitment

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the dedication.

tenacious pursuit

Highlights the persistent and determined chasing of a goal.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "sheer persistence" in a sentence?

Use "sheer persistence" to emphasize that someone's continuous and unwavering efforts led to a specific outcome, often despite facing significant challenges. For example, “It was through "sheer persistence" that she managed to complete the project on time.”

What phrases can I use instead of "sheer persistence"?

You can use alternatives like "unwavering determination", "relentless perseverance", or "dogged tenacity" to convey a similar meaning, depending on the specific nuance you wish to emphasize.

Is it grammatically correct to say "sheer persistence"?

Yes, "sheer persistence" is grammatically correct. "Sheer" is an adjective that intensifies the noun "persistence", emphasizing the extent of the determination.

What is the difference between "sheer persistence" and "sheer determination"?

"Sheer persistence" emphasizes the continuous, ongoing effort and refusal to give up, while "sheer determination" focuses more on the firmness and resolve to achieve a goal, regardless of obstacles.