Pertinacious
hardPositive toneper-tih-NAY-shus
adjective
Definition
Holding firmly to an opinion or course of action; persistent
Memory hook
PER-TENACIOUS: thoroughly TENACIOUS — holding on with stubborn persistence.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The pertinacious lawyer refused to give up the case.”
“Her pertinacious pursuit of justice finally succeeded.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ lawyer refused to give up the case.”
Show answer
pertinacious
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Pertinacious is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "tenacious" or "dogged" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "irresolute".
Related GRE Words
dogged
Having or showing tenacity and persistence
persevering
Continuing in a course of action despite difficulty or opposition
tenacious
Tending to keep a firm hold; persistent and determined
unwavering
Steady and resolute; not changing
adamant
Refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind; unyielding
resolute
Admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering
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