perpetuate
What does "perpetuate" mean?
To perpetuate something is to cause it to continue indefinitely, often referring to things that should ideally end, like myths, stereotypes, or cycles of conflict. The mental image is of a flame being kept alive or a wheel being pushed so it never stops spinning. This word is predominantly used in formal contexts, such as academic writing, journalism, or serious political discourse. It carries a negative connotation because it implies that whatever is being "perpetuated" is something undesirable or harmful that is being unfairly prolonged.
"perpetuate" in conversation
Discussing social issues
The media often perpetuates these harmful stereotypes about rural communities.
The media often perpetuates these harmful stereotypes about rural communities.
I agree; it creates a cycle that is very difficult to break.
I agree; it creates a cycle that is very difficult to break.
Used here to describe the ongoing reinforcement of a negative social pattern.
Historical debate
By ignoring the historical facts, they are merely perpetuating a dangerous myth.
By ignoring the historical facts, they are merely perpetuating a dangerous myth.
Do you think it will ever be corrected in the textbooks?
Do you think it will ever be corrected in the textbooks?
Shows the usage of the word regarding the maintenance of false information.
"perpetuate" in a sentence
The treaty was designed to perpetuate peace between the two nations.
The treaty was designed to perpetuate peace between the two nations.
These laws only serve to perpetuate systemic inequality in our society.
These laws only serve to perpetuate systemic inequality in our society.
The organization aims to dismantle the structures that perpetuate cycles of poverty in urban centers.
The organization aims to dismantle the structures that perpetuate cycles of poverty in urban centers.
