perpetrate

American  

[pur-pi-treyt] / ˈpɜr pɪˌtreɪt /

verb (used with object)

perpetrated, perpetrating

1. to commit.

   to perpetrate a crime.

2. to present, execute, or do in a poor or tasteless manner.

   Who perpetrated this so-called comedy?

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perpetrate British  

/ ˈpɜːpɪˌtreɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to perform or be responsible for (a deception, crime, etc)

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Usage

Perpetrate and perpetuate are sometimes confused: he must answer for the crimes he has perpetrated (not perpetuated ); the book helped to perpetuate (not perpetrate ) some of the myths surrounding his early life

Other Word Forms

• nonperpetration noun
• perpetrable adjective
• perpetration noun
• perpetrator noun

Etymology

Origin of perpetrate

First recorded in 1540–50; from Latin perpetrātus (past participle of perpetrāre “to carry out, execute, perform”), equivalent to per- per- + -petr- (combining form of patrāre “to father, bring abou”t; pater ) + -ā- thematic vowel + -tus past participle suffix; -ate ¹

Example Sentences

This study suggests elder financial abuse is typically perpetrated by family members, trusted friends and caregivers.

From MarketWatch

This study suggests elder financial abuse is typically perpetrated by family members, trusted friends, and caregivers.

From MarketWatch

Under Oklahoma law, first-degree manslaughter is defined as a homicide that occurs when perpetrated without a "design to effect death" while a person is engaged in the commission of a misdemeanor.

From BBC

In the past five years, 93% of fatal terrorist attacks in the West were perpetrated by lone-wolf actors, according to the Institute for Economics & Peace, a think tank.

From The Wall Street Journal

"At a moment where we have seen evil perpetrated, he shines out as an example of the strength of humanity," the prime minister added.

From BBC

Related Words

• carry out
• commit
• execute
• inflict
• wreak