Perpetrate

Verb

Definition: To carry out or commit (a harmful, illegal, or immoral action, especially a crime).

Synonyms: Commit, Carry out, Execute

Antonyms: Prevent, Stop, Deter

Examples:

The criminals planned to perpetrate a robbery.
He was accused of perpetrating a fraud scheme.

Mnemonics:

Think of the word "perpetrate" as "perpetrating" or "persistently carrying out" a harmful action.

Etymology:

Origin:

From Latin "perpetratus", past participle of "perpetrare" meaning "to accomplish, perform"

Historical Usage:

The word "perpetrate" has been in use since the 16th century and has retained its meaning of committing a harmful action.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Perpetrate a crime"

Explanation:

Referring to committing or carrying out a criminal act.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "perpetrate" with "perpetuate".

Explanation:

"Perpetrate" means to commit or carry out an action, usually a harmful one, while "perpetuate" means to prolong or sustain something, often used in the context of keeping something negative alive.