Top 31 Slang For Persistence – Meaning & Usage

Persistence is key, and mastering the right slang for persistence can take your determination to the next level. Whether you’re chasing your dreams or overcoming obstacles, having the right words at your disposal can make all the difference. Join us as we unveil a curated list of the most empowering and motivating slang terms that will fuel your drive and keep you pushing forward towards your goals. Let’s dive in and embrace the power of persistence like never before!

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1. Sticktoitiveness

This term refers to the ability to persist in a task or goal despite challenges or setbacks. It implies a determination to keep going and not give up easily.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “We need to have sticktoitiveness if we want to win this game.”
In a motivational speech, a speaker might say, “Success comes to those who have sticktoitiveness and never give up.”
A person discussing their career might say, “I attribute my success to my sticktoitiveness and refusal to quit.”

2. Grit

Grit is a term that describes a combination of passion, perseverance, and resilience. It refers to the ability to persevere through difficult challenges and maintain a long-term goal.

For instance, someone might say, “She showed incredible grit by working multiple jobs to put herself through college.”
In a discussion about success, one might say, “Grit is often the differentiating factor between those who achieve their goals and those who don’t.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Grit is what separates the ordinary from the extraordinary.”

3. Tenacity

Tenacity refers to the quality of being persistent and determined in achieving a goal. It implies a strong resolve and unwillingness to give up easily.

For example, a mentor might say, “Success requires a combination of talent and tenacity.”
In a conversation about overcoming obstacles, one might say, “Her tenacity in the face of adversity is truly inspiring.”
A person discussing their career might say, “Tenacity has been the key to my professional growth and success.”

4. Resilience

Resilience refers to the ability to recover quickly from difficulties or setbacks. It implies a toughness and adaptability in the face of challenges.

For instance, a therapist might say, “Building resilience is essential for maintaining mental well-being.”
In a discussion about sports, one might say, “Resilience is what separates champions from the rest.”
A person discussing a difficult life experience might say, “I’ve learned the importance of resilience in overcoming obstacles.”

5. Doggedness

Doggedness refers to a determined and persistent approach to achieving a goal. It implies a stubbornness and refusal to give up easily.

For example, a manager might say, “We need employees with doggedness to meet our targets.”
In a conversation about success, one might say, “Doggedness is often the driving force behind achieving big dreams.”
A person discussing their entrepreneurial journey might say, “Doggedness is what kept me going during the toughest times.”

6. Perseverance

Perseverance refers to the ability to persist and continue striving towards a goal, despite challenges or setbacks. It is the quality of having a strong will and determination.

For example, “He showed great perseverance in his pursuit of becoming a professional athlete.”
In a motivational speech, someone might say, “Perseverance is the key to success, no matter how many times you fall, get back up and keep going.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “Perseverance is what will help you overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams.”

7. Endurance

Endurance refers to the ability to withstand prolonged physical or mental effort. It is the capacity to endure and keep going, even when faced with challenges or fatigue.

For instance, “Marathon runners need to have great endurance to complete the race.”
A coach might say to their team, “Endurance is what will give you the edge in a long and demanding game.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might share, “Endurance is not just about physical strength, but also mental resilience.”

8. Fortitude

Fortitude refers to the strength of character and the ability to endure difficult or challenging situations. It is the mental and emotional strength to face adversity with courage and resilience.

For example, “She displayed great fortitude in the face of tragedy.”
In a speech about overcoming obstacles, someone might say, “Fortitude is what separates the achievers from the dreamers.”
A motivational quote might read, “Fortitude is the power to overcome and the courage to continue.”

9. Steadfastness

Steadfastness refers to the quality of being unwavering and firmly committed to a goal or belief. It is the ability to remain dedicated and determined, even in the face of challenges or opposition.

For instance, “His steadfastness in fighting for justice inspired others to join the cause.”
In a discussion about successful entrepreneurs, someone might say, “Steadfastness is what keeps them going, even when faced with failure.”
A mentor might advise their mentee, “Steadfastness is key to achieving your long-term goals.”

10. Backbone

Backbone refers to the strength and support that enables someone to persevere and remain steadfast in the face of challenges. It is the metaphorical backbone that gives a person the courage and resilience to keep going.

For example, “She showed great backbone in standing up for her beliefs.”
In a conversation about leadership, someone might say, “A strong leader needs to have backbone and make tough decisions.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Your backbone is what will carry you through the toughest times and lead you to success.”

11. Resolve

Resolve refers to the firmness of purpose or determination to achieve a goal or overcome an obstacle. It implies a strong commitment to seeing something through to the end.

For example, “She faced many challenges, but her resolve never wavered.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “Having resolve is essential for achieving success.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Believe in yourself and have the resolve to pursue your dreams.”

12. Gumption

Gumption refers to the courage, resourcefulness, and determination to take action and make things happen, especially in the face of adversity or challenges.

For instance, “She showed great gumption by starting her own business.”
In a conversation about problem-solving, someone might say, “You need to have gumption to find creative solutions.”
A parent might encourage their child by saying, “Show some gumption and go after what you want.”

13. Stick-to-it-iveness

Stick-to-it-iveness is a colloquial term that describes the quality of persisting with a task or goal, even when faced with difficulties or setbacks. It emphasizes the importance of staying committed and not giving up.

For example, “Her stick-to-it-iveness allowed her to overcome many obstacles in her career.”
In a discussion about achieving long-term goals, someone might say, “Success requires stick-to-it-iveness and dedication.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “Show some stick-to-it-iveness and give it your all.”

14. Determination

Determination refers to the firmness of purpose and the unwavering commitment to achieving a goal or overcoming challenges. It often involves a strong sense of motivation and perseverance.

For instance, “His determination to succeed led him to overcome many obstacles.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “Determination is key to reaching your full potential.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “Your determination will help you achieve great things.”

15. Persistence

Persistence refers to the quality of continuing to pursue a goal or course of action, even in the face of difficulties, obstacles, or failures. It involves staying focused and not giving up easily.

For example, “Her persistence paid off when she finally achieved her dream.”
In a discussion about career success, someone might say, “Persistence is often the key differentiator between those who succeed and those who don’t.”
A mentor might advise their mentee by saying, “Keep up your persistence and you’ll eventually achieve your goals.”

16. Resoluteness

Resoluteness refers to a firm determination to achieve a goal or overcome obstacles. It is the quality of being unwavering and persistent in the pursuit of something.

For example, a coach might say, “His resoluteness is what makes him a great athlete.”
In a discussion about success, someone might say, “Resoluteness is key to achieving your goals.”
A motivational speaker might encourage the audience by saying, “Cultivate resoluteness and you can overcome any challenge.”

17. Steely determination

Steely determination refers to a strong and unwavering persistence in the face of challenges or difficulties. It implies a resolute and unyielding attitude towards achieving a goal.

For instance, a teacher might say, “She showed steely determination in her studies, never giving up despite the obstacles.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “His steely determination is what sets him apart from other athletes.”
A motivational speaker might inspire the audience by saying, “Cultivate steely determination and nothing can stop you.”

18. Iron will

Iron will refers to an unyielding determination and resolve to achieve something. It implies a strong and unwavering commitment to one’s goals, regardless of challenges or setbacks.

For example, a mentor might say, “To succeed in life, you need an iron will.”
In a discussion about perseverance, someone might say, “Her iron will is what helped her overcome adversity.”
A motivational quote might say, “An iron will is the key to turning dreams into reality.”

19. Never-say-die attitude

A never-say-die attitude refers to a mindset of refusing to give up or surrender, even in the face of difficult or seemingly impossible situations. It implies a persistent and resilient approach to challenges.

For instance, a coach might say, “His never-say-die attitude is what makes him a valuable team player.”
In a discussion about overcoming obstacles, someone might say, “A never-say-die attitude is essential for success.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Adopt a never-say-die attitude and you can achieve anything.”

20. Stick-to-itiveness

Stick-to-itiveness refers to the quality of persistent determination and perseverance in pursuing a goal. It implies a steadfast and unwavering commitment to seeing something through to the end.

For example, a mentor might say, “Developing stick-to-itiveness is crucial for achieving long-term success.”
In a discussion about work ethic, someone might say, “His stick-to-itiveness is what sets him apart from others.”
A motivational quote might say, “Success comes to those with stick-to-itiveness and a never-give-up attitude.”

21. Spunk

Spunk refers to a person’s determination or perseverance in the face of challenges or adversity.

For example, someone might say, “She has a lot of spunk, she never gives up.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The team showed great spunk in their comeback victory.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Never lose your spunk, keep pushing forward.”

22. Stick-to-it-ivity

Stick-to-it-ivity is a playful term used to describe someone’s tenacity or ability to persist in their efforts.

For instance, a teacher might tell their students, “You need to have more stick-to-it-ivity if you want to succeed.”
In a work setting, a manager might say, “We need employees with stick-to-it-ivity to meet our goals.”
A coach might encourage their team by saying, “Show some stick-to-it-ivity on the field, don’t give up!”

23. Staying power

Staying power refers to a person’s ability to endure or persist over a long period of time.

For example, a business owner might say, “The key to success is having staying power in a competitive market.”
In a relationship context, someone might say, “Their marriage has a lot of staying power, they’ve been together for decades.”
A marathon runner might talk about their staying power by saying, “I trained hard to build up my staying power for the race.”

24. Follow-through

Follow-through refers to a person’s ability to complete tasks or commitments they have made.

For instance, a manager might say, “We need employees who have strong follow-through to ensure projects are completed.”
In a sports context, a coach might emphasize the importance of follow-through in shooting a basketball or swinging a golf club.
A friend might encourage another by saying, “You can do it, just remember to have follow-through and finish what you started.”

25. Drive

Drive refers to a person’s motivation or ambition to achieve their goals.

For example, someone might say, “She has a lot of drive, she never gives up on her dreams.”
In a work context, a supervisor might say, “We’re looking for candidates with drive and a strong work ethic.”
A mentor might inspire their mentee by saying, “You have the drive to succeed, now go out there and make it happen!”

26. Zeal

Zeal refers to a strong feeling of passion or enthusiasm towards achieving a goal or completing a task.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “Approach every game with zeal and determination.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Find your passion and pursue it with zeal.”
A friend might say to someone who is working hard, “I admire your zeal and dedication to your craft.”

27. True grit

True grit is a term used to describe someone who possesses unwavering determination and resilience in the face of challenges or obstacles.

For instance, a teacher might say to a struggling student, “You’ve got true grit, keep pushing through.”
A sports commentator might describe an athlete as having “true grit” after a remarkable comeback from an injury.
A parent might say to their child, “You can achieve anything with true grit and hard work.”

28. Grind

Grind is a slang term that refers to the act of working hard and persevering towards a goal, often in a relentless manner.

For example, a professional athlete might say, “I’m going to hit the grind and train every day to improve my skills.”
A student might say to their classmates, “Let’s all grind together and study for this exam.”
A coworker might encourage their colleague by saying, “Keep up the grind, your efforts will pay off.”

29. Never say die

Never say die is a phrase used to express a refusal to give up or surrender, even in the face of adversity or failure.

For instance, a coach might inspire their team by saying, “Never say die, keep fighting until the very end.”
A friend might encourage someone who is facing a difficult situation by saying, “Stay strong and never say die.”
A motivational speaker might use this phrase to emphasize the importance of perseverance and resilience.

30. Hang in there

Hang in there is a phrase used to encourage someone to stay determined and not give up, especially during challenging or difficult times.

For example, a friend might say to someone going through a tough situation, “Hang in there, things will get better.”
A teacher might say to a struggling student, “Keep working hard and hang in there, you’ll see progress.”
A parent might encourage their child by saying, “Life can be tough, but always remember to hang in there and never give up.”

31. Stay the course

This phrase means to continue pursuing a goal or objective despite challenges or obstacles. It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and not giving up.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “We’re facing a tough opponent, but we need to stay the course and play our best.”
In a business context, a manager might encourage their employees by saying, “We’re going through a difficult period, but we need to stay the course and keep working towards our long-term goals.”
A motivational speaker might inspire their audience by saying, “Life will throw challenges at you, but if you stay the course, you’ll achieve success.”