deterrence — the practice of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the practice of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈtɛrəns/
Example Sentences
- The security cameras serve as a deterrence against shoplifting.
- My mom's cooking is such an effective deterrence that even the mice moved out.
- The death penalty debate often centers on its value as deterrence.
deterrence
NOUN//dɪˈtɛrəns//
the practice of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences
A deterrence warning stops students from misbehaving through fear of consequences
Deterrence is built on reference to past consequence — through reverence for its power and inference of what follows, the will to transgress is halted before it begins
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'deterrere' meaning 'to frighten away or prevent,' composed of the prefix 'de-' (away) and 'terrere' (to frighten). The word entered English in the mid-16th century with the sense of discouraging or preventing something through fear of consequences.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The security cameras serve as a deterrence against shoplifting.”
“My mom's cooking is such an effective deterrence that even the mice moved out.”
“The death penalty debate often centers on its value as deterrence.”
“Speed bumps are a simple but effective deterrence for reckless driving.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.