Perpetrate

usgb/ˈpɜːrpətreɪt/
verb

To carry out or commit a harmful, illegal, or immoral action.

The group was convicted of perpetrating a series of hate crimes against minority communities.
Visual representation of "perpetrate" - To carry out or commit a harmful, illegal, or immoral action

Often appears as...

  • perpetrate a crime
  • perpetrate a fraud

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "perpetrate"
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Negative Actions

Perpetrate refers to actions that are usually harmful and frowned upon by society.

Illustration for Negative Actions
He was found guilty of perpetrating an elaborate embezzlement scheme.
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Legality

'Perpetrate' often indicates activities breaking the law or rules.

Illustration for Legality
The official was jailed for perpetrating bribery and corruption.
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Serious Tone

Use 'perpetrate' in contexts that are serious, often in legal or formal discussions.

Illustration for Serious Tone
The documentary highlighted the atrocities perpetrated during the war.
Visual representation of the word "Perpetrate"

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