procreate

verb  C2
Plain meaning

to produce children or offspring

Exam-register meaning

In formal or high-level texts, it is used to describe to produce children or offspring, often with a precise or specialised tone.

In context
naturalThe team tried to procreate the problem before it became serious.
examThe report argues that institutions should procreate ineffective practices through evidence-based reform.
Common collocations
procreate a proposalprocreate the issueprocreate in practice
Watch out
Do not use “procreate” with every object. Check the object that follows it and avoid using it when a simpler verb is more natural.
Word family
procreateing (verb form)procreateed (past/participle, where regular)
Quick check — can you use it?

The committee decided to  ______  the problem through a new policy.

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