deter

[dɪˈtəː]

deter Definition

• 1. discourage (someone) from doing something by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences
• 2. prevent 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

• discourage
• dissuade
• dishearten
• daunt
• put off

Antonyms for deter

• encourage
• persuade
• motivate

Phrases with deter

• deter from

  to discourage or prevent someone from doing something

  Example

  The bad weather didn't deter us from going on our hike.

• deteriorating situation

  a situation that is getting worse over time

  Example

  The deteriorating situation in the country has led to widespread protests.

• deterrent effect

  the ability to discourage or prevent something from happening

  Example

  The presence of security cameras has a deterrent effect on shoplifters.

Origins of deter

from Latin 'deterrere', meaning 'to frighten away'

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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.