verb

persevere

/ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪr/ · say it: per·suh·VEER

to continue despite difficulty

In Actions & Behavior

In more detail

to continue trying hard to do something despite difficulties or delays; to not give up

Examples

She persevered through years of rejection before becoming a successful writer.

How to use persevere

Persevere is a somewhat formal verb typically used in contexts of sustained effort over time, especially in the face of obstacles. It carries a positive, determined tone and emphasizes not only continuation but also commitment to a goal or task. Unlike 'persist,' which can be neutral or slightly negative when applied to unwanted behavior, persevere is almost always viewed favorably.

Common phrases

persevere despite difficulties
persevere with determination
persevere through hardship
persevere in one's efforts
persevere with patience

Synonyms

persist · continue · endure · soldier on · press ahead

Opposites

give up · surrender · quit

Word family

perseverance (noun) · perseverant (adjective) · perseveringly (adverb)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse the spelling with 'perseverate' (to repeat unnecessarily) or use 'persevere' as a transitive verb without a preposition, when it requires 'in' or 'with' (e.g., 'persevere in one's studies,' not 'persevere one's studies').

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