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deterrent

[dih-tur-uhnt, -tuhr-, -ter-] / dɪˈtɜr ənt, -ˈtʌr-, -ˈtɛr- /


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 young men like Bakary Jaiju, already prepared to risk everything, it is little deterrent; for human rights groups it brings new fears for asylum seekers and their struggle to be heard.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 2026

It is hoped that conceding a corner which could lead to conceding a goal is a more effective deterrent.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Berlin hopes the decision removes an irritant with Paris as they extend France’s nuclear deterrent to other European countries.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

Proponents say return hubs -- which would serve either as the final destination or as transfer centres for those expelled -- could facilitate repatriations and act as a deterrent for would-be irregular migrants.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

Not only did all those police act as a deterrent, but they also provided the manpower to imprison criminals who might have otherwise gone uncaught.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt




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