ENGLISH
REFERENCE

persistently

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //pɝˈsɪstəntɫi// UK //pəsˈɪstəntli// per·sis·tent·ly

adv. to do something again and again, even if it is difficult or if people try to stop you.

adv. continuing firmly or obstinately in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition; occurring repeatedly over a prolonged period.


SIMPLE

He persistently asked for a promotion until he got one.

CONTEXTUAL

The local community has persistently campaigned for a new library despite several budget cuts from the city council.

COMPLEX

The witness persistently maintained her version of events throughout the cross-examination, refusing to be rattled by the defense attorney's aggressive questioning.

Origin

From persistent + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of a clause to emphasize duration and effort.

Pitfall

He is persistently to call me.He persistently calls me.Learners sometimes use 'persistently' with an infinitive like an adjective; it should modify the main verb directly.

© 2026 English Reference