“Perpetrate” vs. “Perpetuate”: What’s the Difference?
Jun 9, 2023
Engram
The difference between “perpetrate” and “perpetuate”
- "Perpetrate" refers to the act of carrying out a specific action, often with negative connotations, while "perpetuate" refers to the continuation or sustenance of a situation, belief, or behavior.
- "Perpetrate" implies active involvement or responsibility in committing an action, typically associated with wrongdoing, while "perpetuate" implies the continuation or reinforcement of existing circumstances, often without direct involvement in the initial creation or initiation.
- "Perpetrate" focuses on the act itself and the negative implications associated with it, while "perpetuate" emphasizes the ongoing nature and effects of a situation, belief, or behavior, often highlighting the role of societal or systemic factors.
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What is the definition of “perpetrate” and “perpetuate”?
Perpetrate
- "Perpetrate" is a verb that means to carry out, commit, or be responsible for a harmful, illegal, or morally wrong action, typically referring to a specific act or offense.
- It implies the initiation or active involvement in the execution of an action, often associated with negative or criminal behavior.
- "Perpetrate" emphasizes the act of causing or carrying out a particular action, particularly in relation to something negative or harmful.
Perpetuate
- "Perpetuate" is a verb that means to prolong, sustain, or continue a situation, condition, belief, or behavior, often with the intention of keeping it in existence or maintaining its effects.
- It implies the persistence or continuation of a particular state or pattern, often reinforcing existing circumstances, systems, or beliefs.
- "Perpetuate" focuses on the ongoing nature of something, emphasizing the role of actions or attitudes that contribute to the longevity or sustenance of a particular condition or situation.
Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?
“Perpetuate” is the more popular variant on the web.
Perpetrate
3,730,000 results on the web
Examples
- The suspect was arrested for attempting to perpetrate a bank robbery.
- The criminal organization planned to perpetrate a series of cyberattacks on major financial institutions.
- The investigation revealed that the suspect had previously perpetrated similar crimes in other cities
More popular
Perpetuate
32,200,000 results on the web
Examples
- The discriminatory practices in the workplace only serve to perpetuate inequality and hinder progress.
- The media's biased coverage of certain events can perpetuate stereotypes and distort public perception.
- By continuously funding outdated educational systems, we inadvertently perpetuate a cycle of inadequate learning.
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