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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.

If America’s conventional deterrent is deemed unreliable, fears about the extended nuclear deterrent are even greater.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

"The policy of continuously strengthening the country's self-defensive nuclear deterrent, as set out by the nation's leader, is an irreversible course that must be implemented without fail," she added.

From Barron's • Jun. 7, 2026

Surging hotel room costs in host cities are also a deterrent.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2026

"These letters are probably intended to have more of a deterrent effect - stop this or else."

From BBC • May 23, 2026

Like the majority of American law-enforcement officials, Dewey is certain that capital punishment is a deterrent to violent crime, and he felt that if ever the penalty had been earned, the present instance was it.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote




Vocabulary lists containing deterrent


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