deterrence

noun
UK: /dɪˈter.əns/
US: /dɪˈtɝː.əns/

  1. The action of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.

    1. Nuclear deterrence is meant to prevent wars.
    2. The aim of sanctions is the deterrence of aggressive actions.

  2. The use of punishment as a threat to prevent people from committing crimes.

    1. The prison sentence should act as a deterrence.
    2. Increasing police presence aims to provide a stronger deterrence against theft.

Synonyms

prevention discouragement restraint hindrance

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "deterrence" in English means: The action of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of the consequences., The use of punishment as a threat to prevent people from committing crimes..

The phonetic transcription of "deterrence" is /dɪˈter.əns/ in British English and /dɪˈtɝː.əns/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "deterrence": prevention, discouragement, restraint, hindrance.

Example usage of "deterrence": "Nuclear deterrence is meant to prevent wars.". More examples on the page.