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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 What's Next The cold trend is expected to persist into the weekend, with temperatures climbing slightly into the mid-30s. —

Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025 But, as long as Howe persists with his 4-3-3 system, then three into two does not go. —

Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 14 Jan. 2025 At the very least, below-normal rainfall is expected to persist into February. —

Angela Fritz, CNN, 14 Jan. 2025 The abuses thus persisted without any consequences. —

Sarah Yager, Foreign Affairs, 14 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for persist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for persist

Verb

The Chiefs persevered, advancing to their seventh consecutive AFC Championship Game — with six of those coming in Kansas City.

— Jesse Newell, Kansas City Star, 19 Jan. 2025
Aside from stats, what makes Hughes so underrated on the market here is his leadership qualities persevering through insidious negativity that's impacted the locker room.

— Michael Gfoeller And David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025