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perpetuate

verb

/pərˈpɛtʃ uˌeɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of perpetuate

To prolong, sustain, or continue a situation, condition, or belief, often in a negative or harmful sense.
"Old libraries perpetuate the wisdom of the past through ancient books."

Detailed meaning of perpetuate

It involves the act of preserving or causing something to endure over an extended period of time, even if it may be disadvantageous or undesirable. When a person or group perpetuates something, they contribute to its ongoing existence or recurrence. This can apply to various aspects of life, such as perpetuating stereotypes, prejudices, or systemic inequalities. It implies the act of maintaining or reinforcing a certain state or pattern, sometimes inadvertently, through actions, behaviors, or attitudes. Perpetuation can occur through repetition, socialization, institutional practices, or the transmission of ideas and values from one generation to another. It is important to recognize the consequences of perpetuating negative or harmful aspects and actively strive for change and progress to create a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.

Example sentences containing perpetuate

1. The clockmaker’s techniques perpetuate a long tradition of craftsmanship.
2. Family recipes can perpetuate flavors that have been enjoyed for generations.
3. The guild wants to perpetuate the ancient art of glassblowing.
4. Many classic movies perpetuate a sense of nostalgia among viewers.
5. The gardening club aims to perpetuate the practice of organic cultivation.
6. The museum’s mission is to perpetuate the understanding of local history.

History and etymology of perpetuate

The verb 'perpetuate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'perpetuare,' which is formed from 'perpetuus,' meaning 'continuous' or 'uninterrupted.' 'Perpetuare' originally conveyed the idea of making something continuous or unceasing. In English, 'perpetuate' emerged in the early 16th century to describe the act of prolonging, sustaining, or continuing a situation, condition, or belief, often with the implication of maintaining something that may be negative or harmful. The etymology of 'perpetuate' underscores its historical connection to the concept of unbroken continuity, highlighting its role in describing the persistence or prolongation of certain elements or practices, even when they may not be advantageous or desirable.

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Further usage examples of perpetuate

1. The ancient manuscript has the ability to perpetuate knowledge across centuries.
2. The restoration project aims to perpetuate the architectural style of the 18th century.
3. Enthusiasts perpetuate the art of calligraphy through dedicated practice.
4. The dance troupe seeks to perpetuate traditional dance forms through performances.
5. The village fair has helped perpetuate the popularity of local crafts.
6. The mentor's teachings perpetuate the skills needed for the apprentices’ trades.
7. The archive perpetuates the availability of important historical documents.
8. The conservation program aims to perpetuate the existence of endangered species.
9. Let's not perpetuate this cycle of misunderstanding.
10. Their actions only serve to perpetuate the problem.
11. We must work together to perpetuate positive change.
12. Gossip can perpetuate rumors and harm reputations.
13. Education is a powerful tool to perpetuate knowledge.
14. This mindset can perpetuate feelings of inadequacy.
15. The media can sometimes perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
16. They aim to perpetuate their family's traditions.
17. It's important not to perpetuate stereotypes about cultures.
18. Silence can inadvertently perpetuate injustice.
19. Effective communication can help break and not perpetuate conflicts.
20. The law was designed to perpetuate fairness and equality.
21. Their actions only serve to perpetuate division.
22. Let's not perpetuate the misconception that ignorance is bliss.
23. Perpetuating negative emotions can be detrimental to health.
24. The organization's mission is to perpetuate cultural heritage.
25. Some myths persist to perpetuate certain ideologies.
26. We shouldn't perpetuate the misconception that success is easy.
27. Their choices can either perpetuate or break the cycle.
28. Our goal is to perpetuate a sense of community and belonging.