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.

Still, that didn’t deter individual investors from buying the dip.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

They are trying to reassure shoppers and visitors that the city centre is safe, and deter groups of children from coming to town to cause trouble.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

They say Article 9, written in the aftermath of defeat, is too restrictive, and that Japan must be able to deter aggression, support allies, and respond proactively to crises in the region.

From BBC • May 7, 2026

Yet that’s unlikely to deter many travelers who see cruises, from Antigua to Antarctica, as the best way to travel.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

Prison did not deter crime significantly, many experts concluded.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander

Vocabulary lists containing deter

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