perpetuate + idea/system
Continue something over time
Perpetuate means to cause something to continue.
The film perpetuates stereotypes about immigrants.
How to use perpetuate with prepositions
Perpetuate usually takes a direct object such as myth, inequality, or tradition. By and in often introduce method or context rather than fixed combinations.
Quick answer
Using perpetuate correctly
Perpetuate commonly appears as perpetuate something. By can introduce the means used to continue something, while in usually introduces the context where something continues.
The policy perpetuates inequality.
They perpetuated the myth by repeating false stories.
The custom was perpetuated in rural communities.
They perpetuated the myth by repeating false stories.
The custom was perpetuated in rural communities.
Choose the pattern by meaning
These forms are not interchangeable. Choose the construction by meaning, not by which preposition appears most often.
perpetuate by + method
Show how something continues
By introduces the action or method causing continuation.
The error was perpetuated by poor record keeping.
perpetuate in + context
Show where something continues
In introduces the setting or environment.
These beliefs are perpetuated in some online communities.
See the difference in context
The same subject can take different constructions because each sentence answers a different question.
Construction
Example
Meaning
perpetuate by
The rumour was perpetuated by constant reposting.
By introduces the means or cause.
perpetuate in
The tradition is perpetuated in small villages.
In introduces the place or context where something continues.
perpetuate through
The message was perpetuated through social media.
Through highlights the channel or medium.
Common mistakes
Some combinations appear in real text but do not mean what learners often assume.
Using perpetuate without an object
Perpetuate usually needs a noun describing what continues.
✕ They perpetuated in schools. ✓ They perpetuated harmful practices in schools.Confusing by and in
By introduces method, while in introduces context or location.
✓ The stereotype was perpetuated by advertising and in popular culture.Using perpetuate for short actions
Perpetuate refers to continuing something over time.
✕ She perpetuated the email yesterday. ✓ She forwarded the email yesterday.Quick practice
Choose the expression that matches the intended meaning.
1. The myth was perpetuated ___ repeated media coverage.
2. These customs are perpetuated ___ isolated communities.
3. Which sentence is most natural?
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Frequently asked questions
What does perpetuate mean?
It means to make something continue for a long time, especially an idea, system, or problem.
Can perpetuate be positive?
Yes. It can describe continuing positive traditions or values, although it often appears with negative ideas.
Is perpetuate by a fixed expression?
No. By usually introduces the means or cause rather than forming a fixed verb-preposition pattern.
Related preposition guides
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