Definition

Verb: To cause something (especially something considered negative, undesirable, or based on a falsehood) to continue indefinitely; to make something last for a very long time or become permanent.

Usage

The verb "perpetuate" is typically used with an object (it is a transitive verb). It often carries a neutral or slightly negative connotation, as it is frequently applied to problems, stereotypes, myths, or cycles that are undesirable. It describes an action that extends the existence or influence of something.

Examples

• The biased media coverage helped perpetuate harmful stereotypes about the community.
• By refusing to address the pay gap, the company continues to perpetuate inequality.
• The monument was built to perpetuate the memory of those who sacrificed their lives.
• Repeating the rumor without checking the facts only serves to perpetuate the lie.

Advanced Usage

• "Perpetuate itself": Used to describe a system, cycle, or condition that has mechanisms causing it to continue without external intervention.
  • The cycle of poverty can perpetuate itself across generations without proper intervention.
• In a formal or legal context, it can be used more neutrally regarding traditions or memories.
  • The foundation was established to perpetuate the artistic legacy of the painter.

Variants and Related Words

• Perpetuation (noun): The act of perpetuating or the state of being perpetuated.
  • The perpetuation of these outdated customs hinders social progress.
• Perpetual (adjective): Never ending or changing; lasting forever or for a very long time.
  • They were locked in a perpetual argument.

Synonyms

• Sustain
• Prolong
• Preserve (can be neutral or positive)
• Maintain (can be neutral)
• Eternalize

Antonyms

• Eradicate
• Eliminate
• Stop
• Discontinue
• End

Related Phrases / Collocations

• Perpetuate a myth: To cause a false belief or story to continue.
• Perpetuate a cycle: To cause a repeating pattern (often a negative one like violence or debt) to continue.
• Perpetuate an injustice: To allow an unfair situation to persist.
• Perpetuate the memory of: To ensure someone or something is remembered (a more positive/neutral use).

Verb

1. cause to continue or prevail
   • perpetuate a myth