Perpetuation: meaning, definitions and examples

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perpetuation

[ˌpɜːr.pɪtʃ.uˈeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

ongoing process

The act of continuing or prolonging something indefinitely, especially something negative or harmful.

Synonyms

continuation, prolongation, sustainment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
perpetuation	Used when referring to the act of making something continue indefinitely. Often used in a negative sense to talk about prolonging bad situations or practices. The dictator's rule led to the perpetuation of poverty in the country. The perpetuation of outdated traditions can hinder progress.
continuation	Applicable in neutral or positive scenarios to describe something that is ongoing or resuming after a pause. It can refer to events, traditions, or states. The continuation of the project depends on additional funding. After the intermission, the continuation of the concert was met with applause.
prolongation	Best used when describing the extension of time, especially when it is undesirable or excessive. The prolongation of the meeting caused frustration among the attendees. Despite their efforts, the prolongation of the conflict seemed inevitable.
sustainment	Typically used in contexts related to support and maintenance to keep something going, particularly in technical or logistical fields. The army requires the sustainment of supplies to continue its operations. Effective sustainment of the software system is crucial for the business.

Examples of usage

The perpetuation of poverty in developing countries is a major concern for global organizations.
The perpetuation of outdated stereotypes in the media is harmful to society.
The perpetuation of violence only leads to more suffering.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

maintaining a belief

The continuation of a belief, tradition, or custom over time, often without questioning its validity.

Synonyms

perpetuating, preservation, upholding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
perpetuation	This is another form of 'perpetuation', usually interchangeable with the first entry, emphasizing the act of causing something to continue, typically used in written and formal contexts. The perpetuation of racial inequality is a significant issue that needs addressing. Educational reforms aim to stop the perpetuation of these ineffective teaching methods.
preservation	This is used when talking about keeping something in its current state or protecting it from harm or decay, often in a positive sense. Commonly used in environmental, historical, and cultural contexts. The preservation of historic buildings is crucial for maintaining cultural heritage. We must focus on the preservation of endangered species.
upholding	This word is used when referring to the act of maintaining or supporting something, like a principle, a law, or a tradition. It often carries a positive connotation of integrity and support. Upholding democratic values is fundamental to a free society. The judge is committed to upholding the law impartially.
perpetuating	This is the present participle form of 'perpetuate' and is commonly used when emphasizing the ongoing process of continuing something, often with a negative connotation. By spreading false information, people are perpetuating dangerous stereotypes. The media has been criticized for perpetuating violence through sensationalist coverage.

Examples of usage

The perpetuation of superstitions in modern society is based on cultural traditions.
The perpetuation of myths and legends keeps ancient stories alive.
The perpetuation of a false narrative can have long-lasting effects.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'perpetuare' which means 'to make everlasting'.
It combines 'perpetuus', meaning 'perpetual' or 'continuous', denoting an idea of something ongoing.
The usage of the term dates back to the late 15th century, often in legal contexts to refer to the maintenance of rights or duties.

Social Sciences

In social contexts, perpetuation can refer to the continuation of social norms and cultural practices.
Many scholars argue that certain stereotypes and cultural beliefs are perpetuated through media and education.
Movements for social change often aim to combat the perpetuation of inequality and injustice.

Psychology

Cognitive biases, such as the confirmation bias, contribute to the perpetuation of specific beliefs over time.
The 'fear cycle' describes how negative experiences can perpetuate anxiety and fear in individuals, creating a loop.
Attachment styles developed in childhood can perpetuate behaviors and relationship patterns into adulthood.

Environmental Studies

The perpetuation of certain agricultural practices can lead to sustainable or unsustainable ecosystems.
Conservationists work against the perpetuation of harmful practices that threaten biodiversity.
Climate change is a concern as it perpetuates environmental degradation unless addressed.

Literature

Many narratives explore the themes of the perpetuation of familial legacies, illustrating how past decisions affect future generations.
In folklore, the perpetuation of tales often serves to convey moral lessons across cultures.
Authors often highlight the cycle of violence or love in their works to discuss how these themes are perpetuated through generations.

Translations

Translations of the word "perpetuation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perpetuação

🇮🇳 स्थायीकरण

🇩🇪 Verewigung

🇮🇩 pelestarian

🇺🇦 увічнення

🇵🇱 uwiecznienie

🇯🇵 永続

🇫🇷 perpétuation

🇪🇸 perpetuación

🇹🇷 ebedileştirme

🇰🇷 영속화

🇸🇦 تخليد

🇨🇿 zvěčnění

🇸🇰 zvečenie

🇨🇳 永存

🇸🇮 ohranjanje

🇮🇸 varanleiki

🇰🇿 мәңгілік

🇬🇪 მარადიულობა

🇦🇿 əbədiləşdirmə

🇲🇽 perpetuación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,133, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18130 ailing
18131 rocker
18132 conjugal
18133 perpetuation
18134 emigrant
18135 accursed
18136 epitome
...