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perseveration

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪəreɪʃən/

KK: /ˌpɜrsəˈvɪreɪʃən/

noun
Definition

The act of repeating something, like a word or action, even when it is no longer needed or appropriate, often due to a psychological condition.


Example

His perseveration on the same topic made it difficult for others to join the conversation.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever noticed how some people exhibit perseveration when they talk?
Sloth B
Yeah, it can be a bit confusing sometimes.
Sloth A
Right? It’s like they just can’t stop repeating the same thing over and over.
Sloth B
Exactly! It’s fascinating but also a little concerning.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
persistence
continuation
repetition
Antonyms
cessation
discontinuation
interruption
Root Explanation

Perseveration → It is formed from "per-" (meaning through) and "severare" (meaning to be serious or strict). The word describes the act of continuing or persisting through something, often in a repetitive manner.

Memory Tip

Think of 'through' ('per-') and 'being serious' ('severare') to remember that perseveration means to persist or continue in a repetitive way.

Visually Confused Words
severation
prerevelation
severization
prosperation
prevariation
preservation
preoperation
perpetration
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