noun a thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something
Deterrents are used to dissuade potential adversaries from taking aggressive actions.
Prison sentences are seen as a deterrent to committing crimes.
Warning labels on cigarette packages serve as a deterrent to smoking.
High taxes can be a deterrent to investment in certain industries.
Fines for pollution can act as a deterrent to companies harming the environment.
A writer may use deterrents in their writing to create tension or conflict in a story, such as a character facing a deterrent that prevents them from achieving their goal.
A psychologist may use deterrents in therapy to discourage certain behaviors or thoughts, such as implementing consequences for negative actions.
A lawyer may use deterrents in legal cases to prevent future misconduct or crimes by advocating for strict penalties or consequences for the defendant.
A security analyst may use deterrents in cybersecurity to prevent cyber attacks by implementing strong security measures that deter hackers or malicious actors.