English Reference
Noun

deterrent

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /dɪˈtɝɹənt/ UK /dɪtˈɜːɹənt/ de·ter·rent UK spelling deterrents

n.something that stops you from doing something because you are afraid of the consequences. It makes a bad action seem not worth the risk.

n.a factor or measure that discourages or prevents a particular action by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.


SIMPLE

The high fine is a strong deterrent against speeding.

CONTEXTUAL

Installing visible security cameras serves as an effective deterrent to potential shoplifters in the retail district.

COMPLEX

The debate over whether capital punishment acts as a genuine deterrent to violent crime remains a central point of contention in modern legal philosophy.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'to' or 'against'.

Pitfall
a deterrent for crimea deterrent to crime

While 'for' is sometimes used, 'to' is the standard preposition for indicating what is being discouraged.

Thornberry said that while she did not agree on a full ban on Israeli goods, she thought a ban on those from the West Bank would be part of a deterrent.

The Guardian· 21 Aug 2026

They don't turn people away, and their strictness isn't a deterrent, but there are a lot of cultural norms for those interested in converting to absorb.

Phys.org· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated