doggedness: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1-C2Formal; can be used in elevated or neutral registers, less common in casual conversation.
Quick answer
What does “doggedness” mean?
The quality of being very persistent and determined.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The quality of being very persistent and determined; tenacity.
A resolute and unwavering perseverance in pursuing a goal, often in the face of difficulties, obstacles, or fatigue.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major differences in meaning or usage. The spelling is identical. Both varieties prefer the derived noun to the potentially ambiguous adjective 'dogged' in formal writing.
Connotations
Equally positive in both, implying admirable resilience. Slightly more common in British journalistic or political commentary.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but slightly higher in UK English corpus data.
Grammar
How to Use “doggedness” in a Sentence
[Subject]'s doggedness [resulted in/led to/overcame] [object].Through sheer doggedness, [subject] [achieved] [goal].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “doggedness” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His dogged refusal to give up was inspiring.
- She is known for her dogged pursuit of the truth.
American English
- He showed dogged determination throughout the campaign.
- Her dogged work ethic got her the promotion.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to describe an employee's or team's relentless pursuit of a deal or solution. 'Her doggedness in negotiating the contract saved the company millions.'
Academic
Used in history, political science, or biography to describe a figure's relentless pursuit of a policy or discovery.
Everyday
Less common. Might describe someone finishing a difficult DIY project or training for a marathon.
Technical
Rare in hard sciences; possible in sports psychology or motivational contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “doggedness”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “doggedness”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “doggedness”
- Misspelling as 'dogedness' (dropping a 'g').
- Confusing it with the adjective 'dogged' (/ˈdɒɡ.ɪd/ or /ˈdɔː.ɡɪd/) and mispronouncing the noun with two syllables.
- Using it in an overly negative context where 'obstinacy' would be better.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is overwhelmingly positive, describing an admirable and persistent determination. However, in some contexts, it can imply a lack of flair or flexibility.
'Doggedness' is a stronger, more intense form of persistence, often implying a stubborn, unwavering quality that continues despite fatigue or difficulty. 'Persistence' is more general.
It has three syllables: DOG-ID-NESS. The adjective 'dogged' is pronounced with two syllables (DOG-id), but the noun adds '-ness'.
Yes, it can describe the collective tenacity of a team, organisation, or even a nation (e.g., 'the doggedness of the defence').
The quality of being very persistent and determined.
Doggedness is usually formal; can be used in elevated or neutral registers, less common in casual conversation. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(Not a key component for this abstract noun. Related idiom for the adjective: 'dogged determination'.)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a dog with a bone that it won't let go of. 'Doggedness' is like that canine tenacity.
Conceptual Metaphor
PERSISTENCE IS TENACIOUS GRASPING / A JOURNEY AGAINST RESISTANCE.
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'doggedness' most appropriately?