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.

For decades, India avoided large-scale construction along much of its border, calculating that the soaring Himalayas and a lack of roads would deter a Chinese incursion.

From The Wall Street Journal

The overarching goal of any agreement, he said, would be to secure peace and revive the Ukrainian economy while deterring any further acts of aggression.

From The Wall Street Journal

It helps ranchers identify the owner of a lost or stray animal and has long deterred theft.

From The Wall Street Journal

“May today’s sentencing deter anyone who seeks to greedily profit off their clients through deceitful practices,” Raia said in a statement.

From Los Angeles Times

"Discounts on the price per barrel are expected to accelerate and will likely deter many tankers from going to Venezuela," said Monaldi, predicting "a dramatic decline."

From Barron's

deter

Example Sentences

Related Words