deter (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /dɪˈtɜː/

Definition

To discourage someone from doing something by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.

Examples

• The heavy rain did not deter the fans from attending the game.

• Stiff penalties are in place to deter tax evasion.

• We hope that the new security measures will deter criminals.

How to Use deter

deter from (prepositional phrase)

To discourage someone from taking a particular action. — "The fear of being caught will deter him from stealing again."

deter someone (collocation)

To make someone decide not to do something. — "The sheer difficulty of the task may deter less determined individuals."

Synonyms of deter

Words with a similar meaning to deter:

• discourage
• dissuade
• prevent
• intimidate

Antonyms of deter

Words with the opposite meaning to deter:

• encourage
• persuade

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