perpetrate
/ˈpɜː(ɹ).pə.ˌtɹaɪt/
Group 24Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To carry out or commit a harmful, illegal, or immoral action GRE
Example in Context
The investigation revealed that the fraud had been perpetrated by a small group of senior executives acting in concert.
Synonyms
commitcarry outperform
Etymology
To accomplish something harmful through action.
- per- (Latin) — through
- petrare (Latin) — to accomplish
Memory Aid
🐶Sounds like “pur-pet-rate”
A puppy aggressively PURRING while trying to RATE its owner's bad actions — it PERPETRATES mischief!
Visual Association
⚖️A villain plotting a crime while wearing a cape and cackling, showcasing their intent to PERPETRATE evil deeds.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “perpetrate” mean on the GRE?
perpetrate (verb) means “To carry out or commit a harmful, illegal, or immoral action”. The investigation revealed that the fraud had been perpetrated by a small group of senior executives acting in concert.
How to remember “perpetrate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “perpetrate” sounds like “pur-pet-rate”. A puppy aggressively PURRING while trying to RATE its owner's bad actions — it PERPETRATES mischief!
What are synonyms for “perpetrate”?
Common synonyms: commit, carry out, perform.