deterrent Definition
- 1something that discourages or prevents a particular action or behavior
- 2a 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'
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.'
