deter Definition
- 1discourage (someone) from doing something by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences
- 2prevent the occurrence of
Using deter: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The high cost of the trip may deter many people from going.
Example
The presence of police officers can deter crime in a neighborhood.
Example
The warning label on cigarettes is intended to deter smokers from continuing the habit.
deter Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for deter
Phrases with deter
Example
The bad weather didn't deter us from going on our hike.
a situation that is getting worse over time
Example
The deteriorating situation in the country has led to widespread protests.
Example
The presence of security cameras has a deterrent effect on shoplifters.
Origins of deter
from Latin 'deterrere', meaning 'to frighten away'
Summary: deter in Brief
To 'deter' [dɪˈtəː] means to discourage or prevent someone from doing something by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences. It can also mean to prevent the occurrence of something. Examples include warning labels on cigarettes to deter smokers and the presence of police officers to deter crime. The phrase 'deter from' is used to indicate discouragement, while 'deteriorating situation' refers to a situation that is getting worse over time.