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verb

past tense of dog

Synonym Chooser

How is the word dogged distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of dogged are mulish, obstinate, pertinacious, and stubborn. While all these words mean "fixed and unyielding in course or purpose," dogged suggests an admirable often tenacious and unwavering persistence.

pursued the story with dogged perseverance

When is mulish a more appropriate choice than dogged?

The meanings of mulish and dogged largely overlap; however, mulish implies a thoroughly unreasonable obstinacy.

a mulish determination to have his own way

In what contexts can obstinate take the place of dogged?

The words obstinate and dogged are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, obstinate implies usually an unreasonable persistence.

an obstinate proponent of conspiracy theories

When might pertinacious be a better fit than dogged?

While in some cases nearly identical to dogged, pertinacious suggests an annoying or irksome persistence.

a pertinacious salesclerk refusing to take no for an answer

When can stubborn be used instead of dogged?

The synonyms stubborn and dogged are sometimes interchangeable, but stubborn implies sturdiness in resisting change which may or may not be admirable.

a person too stubborn to admit error

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 dogged
Adjective
The dogged detective is played by Peter Eggers, Sweden’s answer to Michael Fassbender (no bad angles), and is directed by Lisa Siwe, director of the OG Nordic thriller series The Bridge (see below). Andrea Duncan-Mao, Vulture, 26 Feb. 2025 The cold case had been solved through DNA evidence left on Karen’s clothes and the dogged work of Sunnyvale Police Detective Matthew Hutchison, who knew of the case growing up as the stepson of a Sunnyvale officer who often talked about the case. Julia Prodis Sulek, The Mercury News, 25 Feb. 2025
Verb
But it’s been dogged by controversy over resurfaced racist tweets by trans star Gascón. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 2 Mar. 2025 This year, one of the Best Picture contenders has been dogged by controversy, while in several other categories, the race feels a lot more wide open than in past years. Sean Collins, Vox, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dogged
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dogged
Adjective
  • The rapid rise of ransomware attacks, supply chain vulnerabilities and data breaches has created an environment of persistent uncertainty, leaving organizations grappling with how to stay resilient in the face of evolving threats.
    Francis Dinha, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • In a bold move to address one of America’s most persistent healthcare crises, Chicago Beyond has launched a groundbreaking fellowship initiative, committing $2 million to support four exceptional birth workers dedicated to improving Black maternal health outcomes nationwide.
    Melissa Noel, Essence, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Despite growing consternation and concern expressed by economists and CEOs, Trump administration officials have been stubborn in defending its trade policies.
    Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Ocasio-Cortez might have a good shot at cracking that stubborn nut.
    Laura Washington, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This dedication serves as the driving force behind every donation, propelling us forward in our relentless pursuit of progress in cancer research.
    Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 8 Apr. 2025
  • After Cooper Flagg knocked down a pair of free throws at the 11:54 mark to give the Blue Devils a 56-42 lead, Houston stormed back with a relentless 28-11 run to complete a stunning rally and punch their ticket to the title game.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But that’s where Adolescence pushes its insistent finger down our fragile parental psyches.
    Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Marsh was insistent there was still more to unlock in Vandersloot — even at 36, even in Year 15 in the league.
    Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 15 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Paul has been adamant that the tariffs won’t help the U.S. His frustration with the tariffs came as seven GOP senators signed on to a bipartisan bill that sought to have Congressional oversight over the president’s tariffs.
    Lauren Irwin, The Hill, 9 Apr. 2025
  • The 12-time Emmy award-winner was also adamant about sharing her cancer journey with her audience—hoping that her experience might offer support and guidance to others facing similar challenges.
    Joanne Fowler, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Nick, now focused on his role as the heir to his grandfather’s empire, and Noah, just beginning to build her own career, are determined to keep their distance, despite their ​undeniable attraction​ and the past that connects them.
    Veronica Villafañe, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Is this morally corrupt crowd determined to ignore constitutional obligations rather than ever admit a mistake?
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • While Tanner Scott is atop their list, and the club pursued a trade of Devin Williams, there is still a multitude of options available.
    Fabian Ardaya, The Athletic, 8 Jan. 2025
  • Wreckage, oil and human remains washed up on beaches from South Florida to Long Island, New York, and horrified civilians watched from Atlantic City’s boardwalk as German subs pursued and sank merchant ships in broad daylight.
    David Wolman, Smithsonian Magazine, 8 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Earlier in December, Pope Benedict XV urged a holiday truce.
    Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Dec. 2024
  • Travelers are urged to keep up to date with weather alerts from their local NWS offices before setting out.
    Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 23 Dec. 2024

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Cite this Entry

“Dogged.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dogged. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

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