Perpetrate or Perpetuate? Spot the Fun Difference!

Perpetrate or Perpetuate? Spot the Fun Difference!

Sure, here’s a simple article to explain the difference between “perpetrate” and “perpetuate”:

Perpetrate and Perpetuate may sound similar, but they have different meanings and uses. Let’s try to understand each word.

– **Perpetrate** is used when someone does something wrong or illegal, like a crime or a harmful act. Remember “perpetrate” for bad things.
Examples:
1. The thief **perpetrated** the robbery last night.
2. The kids decided to **perpetrate** a prank on their teacher.
3. He was caught **perpetrating** graffiti on the wall.
4. The suspect denied **perpetrating** the crime.
5. We must find out who **perpetrated** the vandalism.

– **Perpetuate**, however, means to make something continue, often something considered negative or outdated.
Remember “perpetuate” for keeping something going.
Examples:
1. His comments only serve to **perpetuate** the stereotype.
2. The tradition of wearing black to a funeral helps **perpetuate** mourning practices.
3. The news story helped to **perpetuate** fear among the public.
4. The committee’s decision will **perpetuate** inequality in our society.
5. By spreading rumors, you are only **perpetuating** confusion.

In summary:
– Use **perpetrate** when talking about committing a harmful or illegal act.
– Use **perpetuate** when talking about making something continue, often something considered negative or outdated.

Remember these tricks, and you’ll never mix up **perpetrate** and **perpetuate** again!