Perseverance
noun/ˌpɜːsəˈvɪəɹəns/Perseverance is the quality of continuing to try to achieve something difficult, even when faced with obstacles, delays, or setbacks. It means not giving up easily and staying focused on your goal, showing a strong will to succeed despite challenges.
Perseverance is a wonderful quality that helps you keep going even when things get tough. It's about sticking with a task or a goal, no matter how many difficulties you face along the way. Think of a marathon runner who keeps running even when they are tired and sore.
You might confuse perseverance with patience, but they are different. Patience is about waiting calmly without frustration, while perseverance is about actively continuing to work and try, even when it feels like you're not making progress. Perseverance is about action and effort over time.
Is “perseverance” positive or negative?
“Perseverance” is a positive word — a compliment. Perseverance is a highly positive trait. It is seen as a virtue because it often leads to success and personal growth, showing strength of character and dedication.
Perseverance in a sentence
- “Her perseverance in learning English eventually paid off, and she became fluent.
- “Building a successful business requires immense perseverance and a strong vision.
- “Despite numerous rejections, the author showed great perseverance and finally got her book published.
- “The team's perseverance helped them win the championship, even after a tough start to the season.
- “Developing a new vaccine was a long process that demanded scientific perseverance.
- “With enough perseverance, you can overcome almost any challenge.
Common phrases with “perseverance”
Words similar to “perseverance” (and how they differ)
Determination means having a firm intention to achieve a goal, often implying a strong decision made at the start. Perseverance is the *action* of continuing that determined effort over time.
“She showed great determination to finish her degree, even while working full-time.”
Persistence is very similar to perseverance, often used interchangeably. It emphasizes the continuous effort and refusal to stop, especially when facing opposition or repeated attempts.
“His persistence in asking for a raise finally convinced his boss.”
Tenacity suggests a very strong grip on a goal, like holding on tightly and refusing to let go. It often implies a stubborn and unyielding quality in the face of difficulty.
“The lawyer's tenacity in pursuing the case led to a favorable outcome for her client.”
Grit is a modern term that combines passion and perseverance for long-term goals. It emphasizes courage and strength of character, especially when facing adversity and setbacks.
“It takes real grit to train for a marathon and complete it.”
Endurance is the ability to withstand difficult or unpleasant conditions over a long period. While perseverance is about *active effort towards a goal*, endurance is more about *tolerating* hardship or physical strain.
“The athlete's endurance allowed him to run for hours without stopping.”
Opposites of “perseverance”
Word family
This is the action form, meaning to continue in a course of action despite difficulties. 'You must persevere to reach your goals.'
Describes someone who shows perseverance. 'She is a very persevering student.'
Where the word comes from
The word 'perseverance' comes from the Latin word 'perseverantia,' meaning 'steadfastness' or 'continuance,' which itself comes from 'perseverare' meaning 'to persist, continue steadfastly.'
Frequently asked
What does perseverance mean?
Perseverance means continuing to try to achieve a goal despite difficulties, obstacles, or delays. It's about not giving up and maintaining effort over time.
Is perseverance a positive or negative quality?
Perseverance is a highly positive quality. It is widely admired and is considered essential for achieving success and overcoming challenges in life.
How do you use 'perseverance' in a sentence?
You can use 'perseverance' like this: 'Her perseverance in practicing the piano every day helped her become a skilled musician.' or 'Success often requires a great deal of perseverance.'
What is the difference between perseverance and determination?
Determination is the strong decision or intention to achieve a goal. Perseverance is the *ongoing action* of maintaining that effort and continuing despite difficulties, which flows from determination.
Why is perseverance important for success?
Perseverance is important because most significant achievements come with challenges and setbacks. Without the ability to keep going despite these difficulties, it's easy to give up before reaching your goals.
What are some common phrases with 'perseverance'?
Common phrases include 'show perseverance,' 'require perseverance,' 'with great perseverance,' and 'a spirit of perseverance.' For example, 'The project required immense perseverance.'