deterrent

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.

Iran has long cultivated militia allies across the Middle East as a way to project power and as a deterrent against attack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 21, 2026

In response a Ministry of Defence spokesperson said: "Our independent nuclear deterrent protects us every minute of every day and is the ultimate guarantee of our national security."

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

US Navy ships would "provide a deterrent effect," and could also "respond if the tankers get fired upon," he said.

From Barron's • Mar. 10, 2026

That can serve as a deterrent to starting wars in the region, he said, but “also makes them more difficult to wind down.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 9, 2026

He locks the gate the rest of the time, but it’s hardly a deterrent, since all you have to do is hop the curb and drive around it.

From "We Are the Ants" by Shaun David Hutchinson