perpetua
/per-PEH-twah/
perpetual
A golden ring symbolizes something 'perpetua'—lasting forever without end.
perpetua(adjective)
perpetual
?Something that lasts forever or is never-ending.
lifelong
?Specifically regarding a duration that spans a whole life.
,permanent
?A state that does not change.
📝 In Action
Las cumbres de los Alpes tienen nieve perpetua.
B2The peaks of the Alps have perpetual snow.
Buscaba una solución perpetua para el problema.
B2He was looking for a permanent solution to the problem.
💡 Grammar Points
Matching Gender
'Perpetua' is the feminine form. Use it only when describing feminine things, like 'la nieve' or 'la paz'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Tone
Use this word when you want to sound more professional or poetic. In casual conversation, people usually just say 'para siempre' (forever).
A ball and chain represents the concept of 'cadena perpetua', or a life sentence.
📝 In Action
El criminal fue condenado a la perpetua.
C1The criminal was sentenced to life.
💡 Grammar Points
Shortened Phrases
In news headlines, 'la perpetua' is often used as a shorthand for 'la cadena perpetua' (the perpetual chain/imprisonment).
Passing a flame illustrates how an action 'perpetua' or continues a tradition.
perpetua(verb)
perpetuates
?When someone or something makes a situation or belief continue.
📝 In Action
Este sistema perpetua la desigualdad.
B2This system perpetuates inequality.
¡Perpetua el legado de tu abuelo!
C1Perpetuate your grandfather's legacy!
💡 Grammar Points
The Accent Mark
In the 'doing' version (the verb), 'perpetúa' has an accent on the 'u' when talking about he, she, it, or you (formal). Without the accent, it's just the 'describing' word.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: perpetua
Question 1 of 2
Which of these phrases refers to a life sentence in prison?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'eterna' and 'perpetua'?
'Eterna' (eternal) often has a religious or spiritual feel (like 'eternal life'), whereas 'perpetua' (perpetual) is more often used for physical states, legal terms, or formal descriptions.
Is 'perpetua' a common word in daily speech?
No, it's quite formal. You'll mostly see it in the news (legal cases) or in books. In daily life, people use 'para siempre'.