← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: They stayed the course despite dipping profits.

Stay the course

Meaning

Persist with a plan despite difficulties.

Usage

Used in business, politics, and personal goals.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Nautical term for keeping a vessel on its heading.

19th century naval manuals mention staying the course.