# insist

/ˌɪnˈsɪst/ (US) · /ɪnsˈɪst/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insist
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to state firmly

verb · CEFR B1

to say something very firmly, especially when other people do not believe you.

For teachers: to assert a statement or claim emphatically, often in the face of doubt or contradiction.

- He insisted that he had locked the door, even though it was open.
- Despite the overwhelming evidence presented by the prosecution, the defendant continued to insist that he had never visited the property.

Usage: Often followed by a 'that' clause or the preposition 'on'.

### 2. to demand

verb · CEFR B2

to say that something must happen or that someone must do something.

For teachers: to demand a specific action or outcome persistently, refusing to accept a refusal.

- My parents insist that I finish my homework before I go out.
- The manager insisted on a full written report by Monday morning, regardless of the team's current workload.

Usage: Commonly takes 'on' followed by a gerund, or a 'that' clause using the subjunctive mood in formal contexts.

## Examples

- I must insist that you wear a seatbelt in my car.
- Although the restaurant was fully booked, the manager continued to insist that they could find a table for the regular guests.
- While the evidence against the suspect was substantial, his legal team continued to insist on his innocence throughout the entirety of the trial.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.