Perpetration Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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perpetration

[หŒpษœหrpษ™หˆtreษชสƒn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

criminal activity

Perpetration refers to the act of committing or carrying out a crime or wrongdoing. It is often associated with illegal activities and can involve various types of offenses, from theft to violent acts. The term highlights the role of the perpetrator in the criminal justice system and is used to describe the initiation and execution of unlawful acts. Understanding perpetration is essential for law enforcement and legal professionals as they investigate and prosecute crimes.

Synonyms

carrying out, commission, execution.

Examples of usage

  • The perpetration of the robbery went unnoticed.
  • Witnesses reported the perpetration of the crime late at night.
  • The study examined the factors leading to the perpetration of domestic violence.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, perpetration often refers to the commission of a crime, acting as the basis for prosecution.
  • Some legal systems differentiate between perpetrators and accomplices, with the former being the main actor.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that individuals who perpetrate acts of aggression often rationalize their behavior to avoid guilt.
  • Research indicates that environmental factors, such as peer influence, can significantly increase the likelihood of someone becoming a perpetrator.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, the concept of perpetration is explored through characters who commit heinous acts, creating moral dilemmas.
  • Contemporary literature often examines the psychology behind perpetrators, investigating their motivations and background.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and TV shows frequently portray various types of perpetrators, from criminals to those committing social injustices.
  • The portrayal of perpetrators in media often influences public perceptions and discussions around crime and justice.

Origin of 'perpetration'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'perpetrare,' meaning 'to carry out or execute.'
  • It evolved in English in the late 19th century, adding a formal tone when discussing crime and wrongdoing.

The word 'perpetration' derives from the Latin verb 'perpetrare', which means 'to carry out' or 'to accomplish'. The Latin root is composed of 'per-' meaning 'through' and 'patrare' meaning 'to accomplish' or 'to do'. As the word evolved into English in the late 19th century, it began to be closely associated with the context of criminal acts. The emphasis on wrongdoing became more pronounced, shaping its modern usage in legal and criminological discourse. Today, 'perpetration' is commonly used to describe the act of doing something illegal or unethical, particularly concerning crimes against persons or property.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,297, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.