insist

in-sist · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To demand something forcefully, not accepting refusal.

  2. 2.

    To state firmly that something is true, especially when others doubt it.

  3. 3.

    To persist in doing something despite difficulty or opposition.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    insist on/upon — to demand or require something
  • •
    I must insist — a polite but firm way of making a demand
  • •
    if you insist — reluctant agreement to someone's demand

Related words

Antonyms: concede, relent, yield
See also: demand, insisted, insistence
Synonyms: assert, demand, maintain

Etymology

From Latin insistere ("to stand upon, pursue diligently, persist"), from in- ("upon") + sistere ("to stand, cause to stand"). Entered English in the 16th century.