“Perpetrate” and “perpetuate” are terms that are often confused due to their similar sounds, but they have distinct meanings related to actions and their effects over time. Understanding these differences is important for clear and accurate communication.
Perpetrate
Definition:
Perpetrate means to be responsible for carrying out or committing something, often referring to actions, typically negative or criminal in nature.
Examples of use:
Bill likes to perpetrate practical jokes on his teammates, adding humor to their daily routine.
The criminals who perpetrate fraud are often prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
It was clear that the error was perpetrated by someone who did not follow the correct procedure.
Perpetuate
Definition:
Perpetuate means to cause something to continue indefinitely or to make it last. It is often used to describe actions that ensure something is remembered or maintained over time.
Examples of use:
The Vietnam Memorial perpetuates the memory of those killed in that war, honoring their sacrifice for future generations.
By sharing stories and traditions, the community helps to perpetuate their cultural heritage.
The museum’s exhibits aim to perpetuate historical knowledge and educate visitors about the past.
“Perpetrate” refers to being responsible for committing an action, often negative or criminal, while “perpetuate” means to cause something to continue or be remembered indefinitely. Using these terms correctly helps to convey the intended meaning and context in your communication.
