Deterrent

/dɪˈtɛrənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.

The high cost of the ticket served as a deterrent to many potential attendees.

A police presence can act as a deterrent to potential criminals.

The installation of security cameras was a strong deterrent against vandalism.

The idea of heavy penalties serves as a deterrent for those considering illegal activities.

The threat of imprisonment is seen as a major deterrent to drug trafficking.

adjective

Tending to deter; having the effect of discouraging.

The company's strict policies on workplace conduct are designed to be a deterrent to misconduct.

Relating to measures taken to prevent an action, especially one regarded as undesirable.

The government implemented deterrent measures to reduce tax evasion.

Derives from the Latin 'deterrere', meaning to frighten away.

deterrent effect

The impact of a measure in discouraging crime or misconduct.

deterrent to crime

A factor that dissuades individuals from committing crimes.

discourage

To dissuade someone from taking an action.

prevent

To stop something from happening.

A scare tactic.

The big fines for littering are just a deterrent.

An intimidation factor.

If you see those guards, it's a real deterrent to causing trouble.