PERSIST Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'persist' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of persist are abide , continue , endure , and last . While all these words mean "to exist over a period of time or indefinitely," persist suggests outlasting the normal or appointed time and often connotes obstinacy or doggedness. // the sense of guilt persisted

Q: When can 'abide' be used instead of 'persist'?

The meanings of abide and persist largely overlap; however, abide implies stable and constant existing especially as opposed to mutability. // a love that abides through 40 years of marriage

Q: Where would 'continue' be a reasonable alternative to 'persist'?

While the synonyms continue and persist are close in meaning, continue applies to a process going on without ending. // the search for peace will continue

Q: When would 'endure' be a good substitute for 'persist'?

The words endure and persist can be used in similar contexts, but endure adds an implication of resisting destructive forces or agencies. // in spite of everything, her faith endured

Q: When could 'last' be used to replace 'persist'?

The synonyms last and persist are sometimes interchangeable, but last , especially when unqualified, may stress existing beyond what is normal or expected. // buy shoes that will last

persist

verb

pər-ˈsist

Definition of persist next

as in to persevere

to continue despite difficulties, opposition, or discouragement she persisted in her efforts and eventually got the job she wanted

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to remain

to remain indefinitely in existence or in the same state my headache persisted for almost the entire day

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the verb persist differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of persist are abide, continue, endure, and last. While all these words mean "to exist over a period of time or indefinitely," persist suggests outlasting the normal or appointed time and often connotes obstinacy or doggedness.

the sense of guilt persisted

When can abide be used instead of persist?

The meanings of abide and persist largely overlap; however, abide implies stable and constant existing especially as opposed to mutability.

a love that abides through 40 years of marriage

Where would continue be a reasonable alternative to persist?

While the synonyms continue and persist are close in meaning, continue applies to a process going on without ending.

the search for peace will continue

When would endure be a good substitute for persist?

The words endure and persist can be used in similar contexts, but endure adds an implication of resisting destructive forces or agencies.

in spite of everything, her faith endured

When could last be used to replace persist?

The synonyms last and persist are sometimes interchangeable, but last, especially when unqualified, may stress existing beyond what is normal or expected.

buy shoes that will last

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of persist Día de los Muertos has persisted as a tradition in Sunnyside for decades — a reminder of the area’s longstanding Latino heritage. —

Megan Ulu-Lani Boyanton, The Denver Post, 16 Nov. 2024 Kennedy linked to a video from an attorney who recently successfully sued the Environmental Protection Agency to take additional measures to regulate fluoride in drinking water. Kennedy, who has long advocated ending water fluoridation, persisted with his pledge after Trump’s election win. —

Samantha Putterman, Austin American-Statesman, 14 Nov. 2024 Cheap stocks still remain for investors to buy, despite the equity market persisting near its all-time highs. —

Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 6 Nov. 2024 But Latino voter dissatisfaction persisted despite better economic markers as the election progressed. —

Suzanne Gamboa, NBC News, 6 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for persist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for persist

Verb

Betts is optimistic about the Dodgers persevering if Ohtani is sidelined, especially after the team overcame its injuries while earning the most wins in the majors during the regular season and reaching the World Series for the fourth time in eight seasons.

Joe Reedy, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2024
The film chronicles the handful of years that followed, with Ito serving by turns as traumatized victim, persevering reporter, and #MeToo movement crusader.

Natalia Winkelman, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2024