Translation guide
Expresses continuing an action despite difficulty, opposition, or the passage of time. Japanese uses various verbs, adverbs, and patterns depending on whether the persistence is stubborn, habitual, or admirable.
The subject refuses to stop an action, often despite advice or negative consequences. Implies obstinacy.
Attaches to the て-form of a verb. Emphasizes that the subject is stubbornly or persistently doing the action, often to the speaker's annoyance. The も adds a sense of 'even' or 'still'.
He persists in smoking even when warned.
Specifically for persisting in saying or claiming something. Often used when someone insists on a statement despite contradiction.
He persisted in saying he was right.
Literally 'tries to do no matter what'. Conveys a strong, often unreasonable, determination to do something.
She persisted in trying to go alone.
The subject maintains an action or habit without giving up. Often implies diligence or perseverance.
Attach to the ます-stem of a verb. Means 'to continue doing V'. Neutral and widely used for any sustained action.
He persists in jogging every day.
She persisted in seeking the truth.
Means to stick to something persistently, not give up. Often used in negotiations, sports, or difficult tasks.
Literally 'do without giving up'. A straightforward way to express persistence.
He persisted in practicing without giving up.
The subject overcomes obstacles to continue an action. Emphasizes effort and resilience.
A very common verb meaning to do one's best, persist, or hang in there. Often used in encouragement.
Despite his illness, he persisted in working hard.
Attach to the ます-stem. Means to do something through to the end, enduring hardship. Stronger than 続ける.
Means to do something patiently and persistently. 根気 means patience/persistence.
The action is bothersome to others, and the subject won't stop.
Means 'does nothing but V' or 'is always V-ing'. Implies excessive or annoying repetition.
He persists in complaining.
Used when someone can't help doing something, often to the speaker's irritation. Literally 'can't help but V'.
He persists in speaking ill of others.
続ける is neutral 'continue'. 抜く implies enduring hardship to finish. 粘る is about not giving up, often in a specific situation like negotiation.
continue running
run through to the end (despite pain)
persist until the end (not give up)
English 'persist in doing' often translates to a verb compound or adverb in Japanese. A direct translation like することに固執する is unnatural in most contexts.
She persisted in asking questions.
He persisted in his bad habits.
Often rephrased as 'did not stop' rather than 'persisted in'.
交渉で最後まで粘った。
He persisted in the negotiations until the end.
He overcame difficulties and persisted in completing the project.
He persisted in his research with patience.