YOUR VOCABULARY, ONE WORD AT A TIME

deterrent

Noun

IPA /dɪˈterənt/

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Meaning in plain English

Something that discourages a person from doing a particular thing.

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Pronunciation

deterrent/dɪˈterənt/

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Someone considers breaking a rule
A likely consequence makes them hesitate
They decide against the action

A deterrent discourages an action by making it less attractive or more risky.

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Examples in context

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A bright security light can act as a deterrent to intruders.
The exam rules were designed as a deterrent against cheating.

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A bright security light can act as a ________ to intruders.

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deterrent — Something that discourages a person from doing a particular thing.

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Something that discourages a person from doing a particular thing.

Compare: A bright security light can act as a deterrent to intruders.

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Word origin

From Latin deterrere, combining elements meaning away and frighten.

Did you know?

Act as a deterrent and serve as a deterrent are common patterns.

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