perpetuate
pur-PEH-choo-ate
/pərˈpɛtʃueɪt/
To make (something, typically an undesirable situation or an unfounded belief) continue indefinitely.
Often used in a negative context, such as perpetuating myths, stereotypes, or cycles of violence. It implies an active role in keeping something going.
The story behind the word. This is the verb form of 'perpetual.' It describes the active process of taking something that might naturally end and giving it 'perpetuity.' In the 16th century, it was often used in legal contexts regarding estates and inheritances.
Word relationships
- prolong: Prolong means to make something last longer than expected; perpetuate means to make it last indefinitely.
- immortalize: Immortalize is usually positive (fame), while perpetuate is often negative (myths/cycles).
- abolish: Abolish means to formally put an end to a system or practice.
- extinguish: Extinguish means to put an end to something, like a fire or a hope.
Commonly confused with
- perpetrate: Perpetrate means to commit a crime; perpetuate means to make something continue.
Word family
- perpetual (adjective): Never ending or changing.
- perpetuation (noun): The act of making something continue indefinitely.
Collocations
- perpetuate a myth
- perpetuate a cycle
- perpetuate a lie
- perpetuate the memory
Example sentences
- "The film was criticized for perpetuating harmful stereotypes about minority groups." Sociology
- "Statues were often erected to perpetuate the memory of great leaders long after their deaths." History
Memory hook
Perpetuate = 'Perpetual-ate'—to make something perpetual. Perpetuate = Keep it going.
When not to use
Don't use it for simply 'continuing' a task; it's for making a state or belief last forever.
Fun facts
- In legal terms, the 'Rule Against Perpetuities' is a famous and notoriously difficult rule that prevents people from controlling their property for too many generations after their death.
Related words
Explore more words
perpetrate, perpetual, sustain, exacerbate, persist, sustained
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