What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
persist
Example
She persisted in her efforts to learn a new language. [persisted: past tense]
Example
The problem of poverty persists in many parts of the world. [persists: verb]
remain
Example
The old building remains standing after all these years. [remains: verb]
Example
I will remain here until you come back. [remain: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Remain is more commonly used than persist in everyday language. Remain is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while persist is less common and has a more specific usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between persist and remain?
Both persist and remain can be used in formal or informal contexts, but remain is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.