ENGLISH
REFERENCE

perseverance

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌpɝsəˈvɪɹəns// UK //pˌɜːsɪvˈiəɹəns// per·se·ver·ance

n. the quality of continuing to try to do something even when it is difficult or takes a long time. You use this to describe someone who does not give up.

n. continued effort to achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition. Often associated with long-term goals and grit.


SIMPLE

Her perseverance finally paid off when she won the race.

CONTEXTUAL

Learning a new language requires a great deal of perseverance because progress can feel very slow at times.

COMPLEX

The scientific breakthrough was not the result of a single moment of genius, but rather years of quiet perseverance in the face of repeated experimental failures.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English perseveraunce, from Old French perseverance, from Latin persevērantia.

Usage

Typically used as an abstract concept; often paired with the verbs 'show', 'require', or 'demonstrate'.

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