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persistent

Continuing firmly in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition. / Continuing to exist or endure over a prolonged period.
Adjective

This word carries a duality of perception depending on the subject. When applied to a person's character, it often suggests an admirable quality of tenacity and grit, portraying someone who refuses to give up on a goal despite repeated failures.

When applied to a situation or a physical symptom, it takes on a more negative or frustrating tone. It describes something unwanted, such as a smell, a noise, or an illness, that refuses to go away, creating a sense of irritation or chronic endurance.

Meanings

Adjective

Continuing firmly in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

He remained persistent in his efforts to find a cure.

Adjective

Continuing to exist or endure over a prolonged period.

The patient suffered from a persistent cough for three weeks.

Examples

She is very persistent.

The rain was persistent.

Be persistent and try.

He was persistent despite the failure.

I have a persistent headache today.

The noise was persistent all night.

The detective remained persistent in his search.

Detective

She has a persistent fever since Monday.

Health

The student was persistent with the teacher.

School Life

Persistent inflation has eroded the purchasing power.

Business
History

I apologize for my persistent requests for updates.

Apology

Related Words

Last Updated: May 2026Report an Error