Perseverance

/ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪərəns/

nounmediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

Continued effort to achieve something despite difficulties or failure.

/ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪərəns/

nounpositivemedium
General

Despite numerous setbacks, her perseverance never wavered.

💡 Simply: Perseverance is like when you're trying to build a Lego castle, and it keeps falling apart. Instead of giving up, you keep trying until you get it right! It's about not quitting, even when things get tough.

👶 For kids: Never giving up, even when things are hard.

More Examples

2

The athlete's perseverance was evident in his unwavering training regimen.

3

Success in any field often requires a significant degree of perseverance.

How It's Used

General

"Her perseverance in the face of adversity was admirable."

Education

"Perseverance is a key trait for students striving for academic success."

Business

"The company’s perseverance paid off when they finally secured the contract."

Idioms & expressions

to show perseverance

To demonstrate a consistent effort to achieve a goal, especially in the face of difficulties.

"She showed remarkable perseverance throughout her studies."

persevere against all odds

To continue striving and succeeding despite facing seemingly insurmountable challenges or difficulties

"Despite numerous setbacks, he persevered against all odds."

From Old French *perseverance* (14c.), from Latin *perseverantia*, from *perseverare* 'to continue steadfastly'.

The word perseverance has been used since the 14th century in religious and moral contexts, emphasizing steadfastness in faith or virtue. The word is common in writings related to self-improvement.

Memory tip

Picture a person PERSISTING through various SEVERE challenges, showing unwavering ANCESTRY (roots) to succeed. PERS-SEVERE-ANCE.

perseverenceperseverencepersevereance

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written