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UK//dɪˈtɛr.ənt//US//dɪˈtɜr.ənt//

Meaning of Deterrent

In simple words: Something that stops people from doing something bad.

Deterrent in a sentence

  • The high penalties serve as a strong deterrent to would-be criminals.
  • Surveillance cameras act as a deterrent against vandalism.
  • The best deterrent is often the visible presence of law enforcement.

How to use Deterrent

Typically used in discussions about crime prevention or policy. Not used in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

deterrent + to/against + object

Memory hint

Think of 'deterring' as in 'deterring crime' – stopping bad actions.

Related words

Collocations with Deterrent

  • serve as a deterrent
  • deterrent effect
  • deterrent to crime
  • create a deterrent
  • deterrent factor

Synonyms for Deterrent

  • discouragement
  • preventive
  • ab deterrent
  • hindrance
  • obstacle

Common mistakes with Deterrent

  • Confused with 'deterring' as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Using 'deterrent' without an object (e.g., 'it is a deterrent' should specify what it deters).

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Frequently asked questions about Deterrent

What does Deterrent mean?

Something that stops people from doing something bad.

What is the definition of Deterrent?

A prevention method or factor that discourages actions or behavior.

How do you use Deterrent in a sentence?

The high penalties serve as a strong deterrent to would-be criminals.

Can you give another example of Deterrent?

Surveillance cameras act as a deterrent against vandalism.

What are synonyms for Deterrent?

Common alternatives include discouragement, preventive, ab deterrent, hindrance, obstacle.

What words go with Deterrent?

It commonly pairs with serve as a deterrent, deterrent effect, deterrent to crime, create a deterrent, deterrent factor.

What are common mistakes when using Deterrent?

Confused with 'deterring' as a verb instead of a noun. Using 'deterrent' without an object (e.g., 'it is a deterrent' should specify what it deters).

How do you pronounce Deterrent?

US: //dɪˈtɜr.ənt//, UK: //dɪˈtɛr.ənt//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Deterrent formal or informal?

"Deterrent" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Deterrent?

Typically used in discussions about crime prevention or policy. Not used in casual conversations.