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deterrent

dih-TER-unt /dɪˈtɜːrənt/

nounadjectiveC1GRESATTOEFL

formalgeneral

(noun) A thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something. (adjective) Able or intended to deter.

Often used in military strategy (e.g., nuclear deterrent) to describe a capability so formidable that it prevents an adversary from attacking. Can also apply to non-military contexts (e.g., a strong penalty as a deterrent to crime).

The story behind the word. The word 'deterrent' comes from the Latin verb 'deterrere,' which means 'to frighten from' or 'to discourage.' It's formed from 'de-' (away from) and 'terrere' (to frighten). The English noun and adjective forms emerged in the 17th century, carrying the sense of something that prevents action by instilling fear or doubt.

Word relationships

disincentive: A factor that discourages a particular action, often economic.
obstacle: Something that blocks or hinders progress, but not necessarily by discouraging intent.
check: A restraint or control.

incentive: A thing that motivates or encourages one to do something.
catalyst: Something that causes or accelerates an action or event.

Word family

deter (verb): To discourage someone from doing something by instilling doubt or fear.
deterrence (noun): The action or policy of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear.

Collocations

nuclear deterrent
effective deterrent
strong deterrent
credible deterrent
ultimate deterrent

Example sentences

"The country's powerful air force serves as a significant deterrent against potential aggressors." Discussing international security.
"Heavy fines act as a deterrent to illegal parking in the city center." Crime prevention.

Memory hook

Think of a 'terrier' (sounds like 'terr' in deterrent) barking loudly to 'deter' intruders. Discouraging factor

When not to use

Do not use for something that merely delays or complicates an action; a deterrent aims to prevent it entirely through fear or difficulty.

Fun facts

The concept of 'mutually assured destruction' (MAD) during the Cold War is a prime example of nuclear deterrence, where the threat of retaliation prevents a first strike.