perseverance

[pur-suh-veer-uhns]

noun

1. steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

   Synonyms: steadfastness, doggedness

2. Theology.,  continuance in a state of grace to the end, leading to eternal salvation.

perseverance

/ ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns /

noun

1. continued steady belief or efforts, withstanding discouragement or difficulty; persistence

2. Christianity persistence in remaining in a state of grace until death

Other Word Forms

• perseverant adjective
• nonperseverance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of perseverance¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English perseveraunce, from Middle French perseverance, from Latin persevērantia; persevere, -ance

Synonym Study

Perseverance, persistence, tenacity, pertinacity imply resolute and unyielding holding on in following a course of action. Perseverance commonly suggests activity maintained in spite of difficulties or steadfast and long-continued application: Endurance and perseverance combined to win in the end. It is regularly used in a favorable sense. Persistence, which may be used in either a favorable or an unfavorable sense, implies unremitting (and sometimes annoying) perseverance: persistence in a belief; persistence in talking when others wish to study. Tenacity, with the original meaning of adhesiveness, as of glue, is a dogged and determined holding on. Whether used literally or figuratively it has favorable implications: a bulldog quality of tenacity; the tenacity of one's memory. Pertinacity, unlike its related word, is used chiefly in an unfavorable sense, that of overinsistent tenacity: the pertinacity of the social climber.

Example Sentences

Speaking about the new series, he added: "You will see some amazing stories of perseverance, resilience, grit and determination and some wonderful and inspiring young people - so it is exciting."

From BBC

Reflecting now, Fisayomi says his year group showed "perseverance" to adjust to life at secondary school in the midst of a pandemic.

From BBC

Perhaps, then, we should be more surprised by our perseverance in the face of such vulnerability and division.

From Los Angeles Times

Stewart’s career and life have been anything but easy, but her story is ultimately a masterclass in grit, perseverance and self-efficacy.

From Salon

"It is the craft of patience and perseverance," he says.

From BBC

Related Words

• dedication 
• determination 
• endurance 
• grit 
• moxie 
• persistence 
• spunk 
• stamina 
• steadfastness 
• tenacity 

When To Use

What does perseverance mean?

Perseverance is the quality of those who persevere—continue to do or try to achieve something despite difficulty or discouragement. A close synonym is persistence.Perseverance can also refer to the act of persevering, as in Only through hard work and perseverance will we be able to achieve our goal—it will not be easy. The word is typically used in a positive way to refer to the quality of someone who doesn’t give up no matter what. A person who keeps trying despite major challenges and setbacks is said to show perseverance.Example: You showed great perseverance by recovering from your injury to compete at an even higher level.