perpetuate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
perpetuate Word Meanings
- to make something continue indefinitely
- to preserve from extinction
- to cause to last forever
perpetuate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
perpetuate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/pəˈpɛtʃʊeɪt/
US
/pərˈpɛtʃuˌeɪt/
perpetuate Word Etymology
per- = through, petuate = to make sth happen (from 'petere' - to seek), Latin → French → English. Visualize a statue standing tall through the years, preserving a moment in time, unchanging and eternal.
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
Perpetuate means to cause something to continue or be kept going beyond its usual course, often by deliberate effort. It comes from Latin through French into English, with per- suggesting through or by and petere meaning to seek or make happen; this imagery helps learners recall actively maintaining something rather than simply lasting. People perpetuate traditions, memories, or institutions by preserving records, funding programs, or teaching new generations. The idea emphasizes ongoing action and care, not mere duration. Because it can imply a positive effort to prevent loss, it is common in discussions about culture, history, or important practices we want to keep alive.
Usage Reminders
- Perpetuate implies active effort to keep something going.
- Use with traditions, memories, or institutions.
- Avoid applying it to things that last naturally without effort.
- It can be formal; prefer simpler phrases in everyday speech.
- Remember the noun form is perpetuation and the adjective is perpetual.
Common Misconceptions
- Perpetuate does not mean to last forever; it means to continue with effort.
- It is not the same as 'preserve' or 'maintain' in all contexts.
- It focuses on ongoing action, not a passive duration.
- It can be used for abstract concepts like traditions, memories, or institutions.
- The noun form is perpetuation; the adjective form is perpetual, with a related but distinct nuance.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, perpetuate often carries a sense of active maintenance rather than mere duration, and it pairs with traditions or memories; learners should distinguish it from preserve or maintain, which can be less action-oriented.
Learning Tips
- Perpetuate implies active effort to keep something going.
- Use with traditions, memories, or institutions.
- Avoid applying it to things that last naturally without effort.
- Notice the noun form perpetuation and the adjective perpetual.
- Practice differentiating it from preserve and maintain in context.
- Create sentences showing both ongoing action and formal discussion.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'perpetuate'?
A.Continue
B.Start
C.Stop
D.Pause
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'perpetuate' used correctly?
A.She tried to pause the conflict.
B.He wanted to start the tradition.
C.Their actions only perpetuate the cycle of violence.
D.Let's stop the progress of the project.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'perpetuate'?
A.Repeat
B.End
C.Continue
D.Renew
Step 4: Opposite Words
How does the concept of 'perpetuation' apply in the context of climate change?
A.By exacerbating the problem for future generations.
B.By focusing on short-term solutions.
C.By supporting deforestation.
D.By promoting renewable energy sources.
Step 5: Mastery
Reflect on a situation where perpetuating a negative stereotype can have harmful consequences.
A.Briefly discuss the impact of perpetuating stereotypes.
B.Give examples of positive stereotypes.
C.Explain why stereotypes are always accurate.
D.Share personal experiences with stereotypes.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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