Definitions

deter

[dih-tur] / dɪˈtɜr /

VERB

check, inhibit from action

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avert block dampen daunt discourage dissuade forestall frighten hinder impede intimidate obstruct preclude prevent prohibit restrain scare stop

STRONG

caution chill cool damp debar divert forfend obviate warn

WEAK

act like a wet blanket disadvise put a damper on put off rule out shut out stave off talk out of throw cold water on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

advance aid allow assist encourage facilitate forward hearten help incite inspirit permit promote push support

STRONG

heat warm

WEAK

instigate persuade put on to stimulate turn on urge

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has also announced plans for "significant changes" to the asylum system to deter people from coming to the UK and make it easier to deport them.

From BBC

She thinks the monthly fees might be deterring buyers, who have many condos on the market to choose from.

From The Wall Street Journal

If those steps don’t work, Kellum said other options might include trapping and potentially using nonlethal projectiles, such as paint balls, to chase away, haze and deter them.

From Los Angeles Times

High housing prices and mortgage rates could deter some home purchases in 2026.

From MarketWatch

They also focus on combat readiness patrols on sea and in the air, seizing "comprehensive" control over adversaries, and deterring aggression beyond the Taiwanese island chain.

From Barron's

deter

Example Sentences

Related Words