deterrent

[dih-tur-uhnt]

deterrent Definition

• 1. something that discourages or prevents a particular action or behavior
• 2. a military or diplomatic means of discouraging an attack or action by a potential enemy

Using deterrent: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deterrent" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The high cost of the product is a deterrent for many customers.

• Example

  The presence of security cameras is a deterrent to theft.

• Example

  The country's nuclear arsenal serves as a deterrent against foreign aggression.

deterrent Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for deterrent

• hindrance
• obstacle
• impediment
• inhibition
• restraint

Antonyms for deterrent

• encouragement
• motivation

Phrases with deterrent

• crime deterrent

  a measure taken to reduce the likelihood of criminal activity

  Example

  The increased police presence in the area has been effective as a crime deterrent.

• nuclear deterrent

  the threat of using nuclear weapons as a means of preventing an attack by another country

  Example

  The country's possession of nuclear weapons serves as a powerful deterrent against foreign aggression.

• smoking deterrent

  a product or method used to discourage smoking

  Example

  Nicotine gum is often used as a smoking deterrent.

Origins of deterrent

from Latin 'deterrentem', present participle of 'deterrere', meaning 'to frighten from'

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Summary: deterrent in Brief

A 'deterrent' [dih-tur-uhnt] is something that discourages or prevents a particular action or behavior. It can be a physical object, like security cameras, or a more abstract concept, like the threat of military action. Examples include 'The high cost of the product is a deterrent for many customers.' and 'The country's nuclear arsenal serves as a deterrent against foreign aggression.'