What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
determent
Example
The high fines for speeding serve as a determent to reckless driving. [determent: noun]
Example
The police presence in the area acted as a determent to potential criminals. [determent: noun]
Example
The warning label on the cigarette pack serves as a determent to smoking. [determent: noun]
prevention
Example
Vaccinations are an effective way of prevention against certain diseases. [prevention: noun]
Example
Installing smoke detectors is a form of fire prevention. [prevention: noun]
Example
Wearing a seatbelt is a preventative measure against injury in a car accident. [preventative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prevention is more commonly used than determent in everyday language since it is a broader concept that covers a wider range of actions and measures.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between determent and prevention?
Both determent and prevention can be used in formal and informal contexts, but determent may have a more negative connotation and is therefore less appropriate in formal settings.
