Translation guide
The adverb 'persistently' describes doing something continuously and with determination, often despite difficulty or opposition. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adverbs, verb forms, and phrases that convey repetition, stubbornness, or unwavering effort.
Describes an action done repeatedly over a long period with determination, often in the face of challenges.
Adverb meaning persistently, tenaciously, or stubbornly. Often used for actions that are repeated annoyingly or insistently, but can also be neutral.
He persistently repeated the same question.
Adverb meaning tenaciously or persistently, with a nuance of patience and resilience. Often positive.
She persistently continued the negotiations.
Adverb meaning patiently and persistently, emphasizing steady effort over time.
He persistently kept practicing.
Phrase meaning 'without giving up', used to describe persistent effort.
He persistently kept trying without giving up.
Describes an action done in a stubborn or obstinate manner, often despite requests to stop.
Adverb meaning firmly, stubbornly, or persistently, often used with negation or refusal.
He persistently stuck to his opinion.
Adverb meaning persistently, to the end, or stubbornly. Often used when someone insists on something.
Adverb meaning stubbornly, obstinately. Can be negative.
He stubbornly refused help.
Describes an action that occurs many times, often in an annoying or noticeable way.
Adverb meaning many times, repeatedly. Very common and neutral.
He persistently tells the same story.
Adverb meaning repeatedly, over and over. Can be used as a noun or suru-verb.
Adverb meaning frequently, repeatedly, incessantly. Often used for actions that are done eagerly or insistently.
Describes a state or action that continues without interruption.
しつこく often has a negative nuance of being annoyingly persistent, while 粘り強く is positive, implying admirable tenacity. Use しつこく for unwanted repetition and 粘り強く for praiseworthy perseverance.
There is no single Japanese adverb that covers all uses of 'persistently'. Choose the expression based on whether the persistence is positive, negative, repetitive, or continuous. Using しつこく in a positive context can sound rude.
He studied persistently. (unnatural; sounds like he studied annoyingly)
彼はあくまでも無実を主張した。
He persistently claimed his innocence.
He was persistently warned.
彼女はしきりにうなずいていた。
She was persistently nodding.
He is persistently complaining.
Adverb meaning incessantly, without a break. Often used for sounds or actions that are continuous and possibly annoying.
The phone rings persistently.