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pertinacity

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌpɜːrtɪˈnæsɪti/

KK: /pɜrˈtɪnəˌsɪti/

noun
Definition

The quality of being very determined and persistent in holding onto something or pursuing a goal.


Example

Her pertinacity in studying for the exam paid off when she received a high score.


Conversation
Sloth A
I really admire your pertinacity when it comes to studying for exams.
Sloth B
Thanks! I just believe that persistence pays off in the end.
Sloth A
Yeah, it's impressive how you keep going despite the challenges.
Sloth B
I think it’s all about having a clear goal and sticking to it.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tenacity
persistence
determination
Antonyms
indifference
apathy
yielding
Root Explanation

Pertinacity → It is formed from "pertinax" (from Latin, meaning stubborn or persistent) and the suffix "-ity" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "pertinacity" refers to the quality of being stubbornly persistent or holding firmly to an opinion or course of action.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'stubborn' ('pertinax') and has a strong 'quality' ('-ity') of sticking to their beliefs. This helps you remember that 'pertinacity' means being persistently stubborn.

Visually Confused Words
pervicacity
impertinacy
verticity
privacity
pepticity
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