Definition
deterrently
adverb
- in a manner that discourages or prevents someone from doing something through fear of consequences
Usage: formal; often used in legal, military, or policy contexts
Examples
- The harsh penalties were designed to act deterrently against future violations.
- Military forces were positioned deterrently along the border to discourage aggression.
- The warning label functions deterrently to keep children away from dangerous chemicals.
- High insurance premiums work deterrently to reduce reckless driving behavior.
- The government implemented the policy deterrently to prevent tax evasion.