Words / B2

p-uh-SIST/pəˈsɪst/

To persist is to continue, especially when it is difficult or annoying: if you persist, the words will stick; the rain persisted. Keep going and carry on are everyday; persist can praise determination or criticise stubbornness (Must you persist?). Persist in + -ing, persist with a plan. Persistent is the adjective (a persistent cough). Persistence is the noun.

Meaning

To continue to do something, even when it is difficult.

Examples

• “If you persist, the words will stick.”
• “Symptoms persisted for a week after the fever went.”
• “She persisted with the application after two rejections.”

Good to know

persist in + -ing / persist with. Can be positive or critical. Adjective: persistent.

Near in meaning

continue

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