noun

deterrent

deterrent

The new law is a deterrent to crime.

The new law is a deterrent to crime.

Nuclear weapons are a powerful deterrent.

Nuclear weapons are a powerful deterrent.

a deterrent ((to sth.)) a deterrent to (sth.) The fine is a deterrent to illegal parking.

Synonyms: disincentive, obstacle, discouragement; Antonyms: incentive, encouragement

From Latin 'deterrere' (to frighten away). 'de-' (away) + 'terrere' (to frighten).

It's something that makes you 'de-tour' from a bad action out of 'terror' or fear.

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