perpetrate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
perpetrate Word Meanings
- to commit a crime or wrongful act
- to bring about or carry out something harmful
- to perform a negative action or deed
perpetrate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
perpetrate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɜːpətreɪt/
US
/ˈpɜr.pə.treɪt/
perpetrate Word Etymology
per- = through + pater = father; Latin 'perpetrare' means to accomplish or perpetrate. Picture a father figure causing problems even while he attempts to protect, highlighting a contrast.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Perpetrate is a formal verb that means to commit a crime or wrongful act; to bring about or carry out something harmful; to perform a negative action or deed. It is often used in legal, news, or investigative contexts, and typically appears with nouns like crime, fraud, violence, or vandalism. You might say a fraud was perpetrated by several accomplices, or that a group perpetrated a violent attack. The word emphasizes the deliberate, intentional nature of the act and usually carries a strong moral or legal judgment. Common collocations include perpetrate a crime, perpetrate wrongdoing, and perpetrate harm.
Usage Reminders
- Use in formal contexts; pair with crime/fraud/violence; remember its intentional/planned nuance; distinguish from commit; use passive voice in news reports; practice with real examples.
Common Misconceptions
- It's only used for violent crimes.
- It can replace 'commit' in all contexts.
- It refers to accidental wrongdoing.
- It's common in everyday speech.
- It means to empower or enable something.
Thinking Differences
English tends to frame perpetrate as a formal, legal or investigative term that stresses intent and planning; learners often mix it with 'commit' or use it in too casual a register.
Learning Tips
- Listen for the formal register in news reports.
- Pair with nouns like crime, fraud, violence, or vandalism.
- Compare with 'commit' to feel the nuance of intent.
- Note the passive voice in articles: 'a crime was perpetrated'.
- Practice with real-world examples from reports or case studies.
- Remember it does not fit casual everyday actions.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'perpetrate'?
A.Commit
B.Prevent
C.Forget
D.Celebrate
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'perpetrate' correctly?
A.They forgot to perpetrate the event.
B.He stopped his friend from perpetrating the lie.
C.They celebrated their friend's perpetration of the mistake.
D.She tried to perpetrate the crime.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'perpetrate'?
A.Commit
B.Neglect
C.Avoid
D.Postpone
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'perpetrate'?
A.Support
B.Prevent
C.Assist
D.Encourage
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might someone 'perpetrate' an action?
A.While studying
B.At a birthday party
C.During a robbery
D.While sleeping
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