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

He said they had researched the virus before arriving from Punta Arenas in Chile on 5 May, but it did not deter them.

From BBC • May 10, 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

Emily gave Jose a small smile of gratitude, but his interjection didn’t deter Mr. Quisling.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

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