What is persevere? Pronunciation and usage in English

persevere means . Learn how to pronounce and use persevere through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of persevere

persevereverb

/ˌpɜːsəˈvɪə(r)//ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪr/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "persevere" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few ways to approach it:

1. Phonetic Transcription (Most Accurate):

  • per - like "per" in "pearl" (short 'er' sound)
  • se - like "see"
  • ve - like "ve" in "vet"
  • re - like "re" in "red" (short 'e' sound)

So, put it together: per-SEE-veer re

2. Syllable Breakdown & Emphasis:

  • per (short 'er' sound) - stress this syllable slightly.
  • se - a quick, unstressed syllable.
  • veer - This is the main stress. Say "veer" with a clear "ee" sound.
  • re - a quick, unstressed syllable.

3. A closer listen (Highly Recommended):

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/persevere/ - This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word. Listen to a few different pronunciations to get a feel for it.
  • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce persevere" on Google, and you'll find many audio pronunciations.

4. Tips for making it sound right:

  • The "ee" in "veer": This is key! Don't say "ver" like "very." It’s a long “ee” sound.
  • Don't over-emphasize: It's not a word you want to drag out. It's relatively quick and fluid.

To help me give you even more tailored guidance, could you tell me:

  • Are you having trouble with a specific part of the word (like the "veer" part)?

Usage and examples with the word persevere in English

Let's break down how to use the word "persevere" in English. It's a fantastic word with a strong meaning!

1. Core Meaning:

  • Persevere means to continue despite difficulties or delays. It's about sticking with something even when it's hard, frustrating, or seems impossible. It implies stubborn determination and resilience.

2. Parts of Speech & Usage:

  • Verb (most common): This is how you'll use it most often.

    • Example: "She persevered through the difficult training to become a marathon runner." (She kept going even though it was hard.)
    • Example: "Despite the setbacks, he persevered with his research." (He continued his research even when he faced problems.)

  • Noun (less common): It can also be used as a noun to describe the act of continuing.

    • Example: "Her perseverance paid off when she finally got the job." (Her determination was rewarded.)
    • Example: "He demonstrated incredible perseverance in the face of adversity." (He showed great determination.)

3. Phrases & Expressions:

  • Persevere with...: This is a very common and natural way to use it.

    • Example: “Persevere with your studies – you’ll succeed.”
    • Example: “She persevered with her painting, even when others doubted her talent.”

  • Persevere against...: Highlights the opposition you're facing.

    • Example: “He persevered against all odds to build his business.”

  • "It takes perseverance to...": Used to describe what it takes to achieve something.

    • Example: "It takes perseverance to learn a new language."

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Persist
  • Continue
  • Maintain
  • Endure
  • Stick with
  • Be steadfast
  • Remain resolute

5. Examples in Context – Putting it into Practice:

  • Positive: "The team persevered and won the championship after a stunning comeback."
  • Personal Growth: “Learning to play the piano requires perseverance, but it’s a rewarding experience.”
  • Overcoming Obstacles: "Despite the challenges, she persevered, driven by her desire to help others."
  • Work/Career: “He persevered through many job losses before finding a fulfilling career.”

6. Tips for Using "Persevere" Effectively:

  • Show the Difficulty: To really convey the meaning, often you’ll want to briefly mention why it's difficult. It's not just about "keeping going"; it's about keeping going despite something.
  • Strong Imagery: "Persevere" evokes a sense of struggle and triumph. Think about using words that relate to effort, determination, and overcoming obstacles.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about using "persevere" in? (e.g., writing a story, giving a speech, describing a situation, etc.)
  • Are there any specific sentences you're trying to craft that involve this word?

Synonyms for the word persevere

Practice with vocabulary persevere

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Despite numerous setbacks and critical feedback, the scientist decided to ___________ with her hypothesis until she gathered conclusive evidence.
  2. In order to ___________ the integrity of the research, all data collection procedures must adhere strictly to ethical guidelines.
  3. To overcome the immense challenges of learning a new language while working full-time, one must truly ___________ through periods of frustration and slow progress.
  4. The project team resolved to ___________ for excellence in design, ensuring every detail met the client's high expectations.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following actions best demonstrates a long-term commitment to a difficult professional goal? a) Giving up when initial results are not immediately favorable. b) Persevere through extensive training and rigorous assessments. c) Changing career paths every few years to avoid stagnation. d) Persist in refining one's skills despite temporary setbacks.

  2. When faced with a sudden, complex problem in a project, what quality is most beneficial to exhibit? a) Impulsivity b) Adaptability c) Complacency d) Resourcefulness

  3. To successfully navigate a highly competitive market as a new startup, what mindset is essential? a) Expecting immediate success without significant effort. b) Being prepared to endure financial challenges. c) Persevere through periods of low sales and investor doubt. d) Relinquishing control at the first sign of difficulty.

  4. Which word best describes the act of firmly maintaining a position or course of action in the face of strong opposition? a) Capitulate b) Waver c) Insist d) Uphold

  5. What is required to achieve groundbreaking innovation over many years in a challenging field? a) A willingness to abandon ideas quickly if they don't pan out. b) The capacity to persevere despite countless experimental failures. c) The ability to forge ahead with new approaches consistently. d) The tendency to avoid risk and stick to established methods.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Despite encountering repeated rejections, the aspiring novelist refused to give up on getting her manuscript published. Rewrite using "persevere" or a related word form:

  2. The company was determined to maintain its reputation for ethical practices, even in a competitive environment. Rewrite without using "persevere" or any related word form:

  3. Sustained effort and determination over many years are essential for achieving mastery in a complex technical skill, regardless of minor setbacks. Rewrite using "persevere" or a related word form:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. persevere
  2. maintain
  3. persevere
  4. strive

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Persevere, d) Persist
  2. b) Adaptability, d) Resourcefulness
  3. b) Endure, c) Persevere
  4. c) Insist, d) Uphold
  5. b) Persevere, c) Forge ahead

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The aspiring novelist chose to persevere in getting her manuscript published, despite encountering repeated rejections.
  2. The company was determined to uphold its reputation for ethical practices, even in a competitive environment.
  3. Perseverance is essential for achieving mastery in a complex technical skill, demanding sustained effort and determination over many years, regardless of minor setbacks.

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