What is the definition of the term that means 'to be responsible for or commit' an action, especially a crime?

The term that means 'to be responsible for or commit' an action, particularly in the context of a crime, is best captured by the word "perpetrate." This word is often used in legal contexts to refer specifically to the act of carrying out a harmful, illegal, or immoral action. When someone perpetrates a crime, they are the one who executes that crime, taking on the responsibility for it. The emphasis is on the action taken, and the implications that come with being the doer of that act.

In contrast, words like "invoke" relate to calling upon a principle or idea, which does not fit the context of responsibility in committing an act. "Perturb" deals more with causing anxiety or agitation, while "instigate" refers to initiating or provoking an action or event. Neither of these terms directly implies responsibility for committing a crime in the same way that "perpetrate" does.