Tenacious
mediumtuh-NAY-shus
adjective
Definition
Tending to keep a firm hold; persistent and determined
Examples
“Her tenacious pursuit of justice finally paid off.”
“The tenacious athlete refused to give up despite injuries.”
Categories
GRE Tip
Tenacious is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "persistent" or "determined" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "irresolute".
Related GRE Words
pertinacious
Holding firmly to an opinion or course of action; persistent
dogged
Having or showing tenacity and persistence
persevering
Continuing in a course of action despite difficulty or opposition
resolute
Admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering
steadfast
Resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering
adamant
Refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind; unyielding
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