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Perpetuate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To perpetuate means to cause something to continue indefinitely, often a tradition, idea, or situation. It implies keeping something alive or active over time, sometimes without change.

perpetuate

/pərˈpɛtʃuˌeɪt/ /pəˈpɛtʃueɪt/

Definition:

To make something continue indefinitely, often a negative situation or belief.

Synonyms:

sustain, prolong, maintain, preserve

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

terminate, cease, end

Common Collocations:

perpetuate a myth, perpetuate inequality, perpetuate tradition

Derivatives:

perpetuation, perpetuator

Usage Tips:

Use "perpetuate" when describing actions that keep something (often negative) ongoing over time.

Common Phrases:

perpetuate the cycle, perpetuate stereotypes, perpetuate the status quo

Etymology:

From Latin "perpetuare," meaning "to make perpetual," derived from "perpetuus" (continuous).

Examples:

  • 1. The media often perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards.
  • 2. Gossip can perpetuate harmful rumors in a community.
  • 3. Some traditions perpetuate outdated gender roles unintentionally.
  • 4. Avoid using stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination.

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