tenacity

Synonym Chooser

How is the word tenacity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of tenacity are courage, mettle, resolution, and spirit. While all these words mean "mental or moral strength to resist opposition, danger, or hardship," tenacity adds to resolution implications of stubborn persistence and unwillingness to admit defeat.

held to their beliefs with great tenacity

When can courage be used instead of tenacity?

While the synonyms courage and tenacity are close in meaning, courage implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty.

the courage to support unpopular causes

When is mettle a more appropriate choice than tenacity?

The synonyms mettle and tenacity are sometimes interchangeable, but mettle suggests an ingrained capacity for meeting strain or difficulty with fortitude and resilience.

a challenge that will test your mettle

Where would resolution be a reasonable alternative to tenacity?

Although the words resolution and tenacity have much in common, resolution stresses firm determination to achieve one's ends.

the resolution of pioneer women

When is it sensible to use spirit instead of tenacity?

The meanings of spirit and tenacity largely overlap; however, spirit also suggests a quality of temperament enabling one to hold one's own or keep up one's morale when opposed or threatened.

her spirit was unbroken by failure

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of tenacity But tenacity is the creed of everyone in their small village, and the people who live there may be exactly what the doctor ordered. Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 9 May 2025 And Whitaker sometimes burrows into subplots with a tenacity that can make the bigger picture recede. Chris Vognar, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2025 Just as impressive was his tenacity off the puck, which especially popped after new coach Todd McLellan arrived midseason. Max Bultman, New York Times, 1 May 2025 Henderson’s blend of speed and vision, plus his tenacity in pass protection and skill as a pass catcher, were alluring. Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tenacity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tenacity
Noun
  • Her power, patience and persistence show up all over the stat sheet.
    Tony Baranek, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2025
  • Matt Cardona remains one of the best stories of persistence and dedication in professional wrestling.
    Jeremy Hanna, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • The Home Service Insurance segment experienced a decline in premiums, attributed to strategic actions to improve sales quality and persistency, as well as economic pressures such as inflation.
    Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 13 Mar. 2025
  • The Home Service Insurance segment experienced a decline in premiums, attributed to strategic actions to improve sales quality and persistency, as well as economic pressures such as inflation.
    Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Over time, this mindset builds creative stamina and psychological safety, both critical for navigating complex roles.
    Rob Robinson, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
  • The actors were so committed and had such dramatic stamina.
    Manohla Dargis, New York Times, 22 May 2025
Noun
  • Colorado Parks and Wildlife did not indicate in its news release what may have caused the animal’s death but said a final determination will be made after a necropsy.
    Max Levy, Denver Post, 16 May 2025
  • This goal for his country against Spain, for example, again highlights his determination to get on the ball, his passing and his willingness to drive forward.
    Sam Lee, New York Times, 15 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Tenacity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tenacity. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tenacity

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