What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dissuasive
Example
The dissuasive tone of the teacher's voice made the students think twice before misbehaving. [dissuasive: adjective]
Example
The police officer gave a dissuasive warning to the teenagers who were loitering in the park after dark. [dissuasive: adjective]
preventive
Example
The company implemented preventive measures to avoid data breaches and protect their customers' information. [preventive: adjective]
Example
Regular check-ups and screenings are important preventive measures to maintain good health. [preventive: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Preventive is more commonly used than dissuasive in everyday language. Preventive is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while dissuasive is less common and is often used in specific contexts, such as behavior or decision-making.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dissuasive and preventive?
Both dissuasive and preventive can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, preventive is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as academic or professional writing, while dissuasive is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as everyday conversations or personal writing.