# deterrent

/dɪˈtɝɹənt/ (US) · /dɪtˈɜːɹənt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deterrent
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- The high fine is a strong deterrent against speeding.
- Installing visible security cameras serves as an effective deterrent to potential shoplifters in the retail district.
- The debate over whether capital punishment acts as a genuine deterrent to violent crime remains a central point of contention in modern legal philosophy.

## Pitfalls

- Not "a deterrent for crime" but "a deterrent to crime" — While 'for' is sometimes used, 'to' is the standard preposition for indicating what is being discouraged.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.