Insist

Definition

Insist is a verb that means to demand something forcefully, not accepting refusal, or to maintain or assert something firmly.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈsɪst/
• Respelling: in-SIST

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈsɪst/
• Respelling: in-SIST

Etymology

The word "insist" originates from the Latin "insistere," meaning "to stand upon" or "persist," composed of "in-" (upon) and "sistere" (to stand). It entered the English language in the mid-16th century.

Derivatives

• Insistence (noun)
• Insistent (adjective)
• Insistently (adverb)
• Insisting (verb)
• Reinsist (verb, rare)

Synonyms

• Demand
• Maintain
• Assert

Antonyms

• Relent
• Yield
• Abandon

Usage

The verb "insist" is used to express firm demands or strong assertions. For example, "She insisted on paying for the meal" indicates a determined action, while "He insisted that the report was accurate" refers to a firm assertion of belief or fact.

Related Terms

• Persist: To continue steadfastly or firmly in purpose.
• Assert: To state or declare positively.
• Demand: To ask for something forcefully.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To demand something forcefully, not accepting refusal: Refers to persisting in a demand.
  • Example: "The manager insisted on completing the project by the deadline."
• To maintain or assert something firmly: Refers to standing by a statement or position with confidence.
  • Example: "He insisted that the results were accurate."