ENGLISH
REFERENCE

tenacity

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced US //təˈnæsɪti// UK //tɛnˈæsɪti// tenac·i·ty

n. the quality of being very determined and not giving up, even when things are difficult. It is like having a strong grip on a goal.

n. the quality of being persistent or determined; the ability to maintain a firm hold on a purpose or action despite obstacles. Often used to describe mental or emotional strength.


SIMPLE

Her tenacity helped her finish the marathon despite the pain.

CONTEXTUAL

The detective's tenacity eventually led to the discovery of new evidence that had been overlooked for years.

COMPLEX

While talent may open the initial door to opportunity, it is often sheer tenacity that determines whether an individual can sustain a career in such a competitive and volatile industry.

Synonyms
Origin

From tenac(ious) + -ity, from Middle French ténacité, from Latin tenācitās.

Usage

Uncountable in its abstract sense; frequently paired with the preposition 'of' or used as a subject for verbs like 'pay off'.

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