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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.

The law would deal "serious punishment" to deter repeat offenders, Cambodian justice minister Koeut Rith told a news conference.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Plus, without mechanisms to make any war catastrophic for Beijing, one expert warns, failure to deter it in the Taiwan Strait could plunge the world into chaos.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

“To build themselves up and deter others from challenging their power, they take others down in public, letting them know exactly where they stand and how much they scorn them.”

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

The Chilean government said surveillance systems and obstacles would also be installed to deter crossings.

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2026

Emily gave Jose a small smile of gratitude, but his interjection didn’t deter Mr. Quisling.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.