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

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

Example 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 The bad news is that, if the fire persists, the worst of this Santa Ana wind event is still expected Friday morning. — Tom Tapp, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026 These kinds of tradeoffs will keep confronting tech leaders as long as that disparity persists. — semafor.com, 16 Oct. 2026 Treatment lasted only four weeks, so it is not known whether the changes will persist. — Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 16 Oct. 2026 Meanwhile, dry air will persist and dry out any effects of the recent rains. — Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for persist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for persist

Verb

The pooch persevered and became healthy enough to be adopted.

— Kelli Bender, PEOPLE, 2 Oct. 2026
Her post included a pair of Biblical verses that encourage Christians to persevere through hardship.

— Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of persevere

Verb

The defense has exceeded expectations and continues to cement itself as a top-20, maybe even a top-15 defense, while the offense remains a disappointment, even after beating the Bears (4-2, 2-1).

— Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 19 Oct. 2026
This month Regal cinemas are re-running James Bond classics as the wait for a new 007 actor continues.

— Luka Ladan, New York Daily News, 18 Oct. 2026

Definition of continue

Verb

Sweetin also noted their bond has lasted since acting on-screen together more than 30 years ago.

— Payton Turkeltaub, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026
Five people were killed and 36 wounded in a Russian attack on the Ukrainian capital that lasted from Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning, Kyiv police said.

— Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of last

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“Persist.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/persist. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of persist

verb

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