deterrence — English Dictionary

Noun

1. The act of deterring, or the state of being deterred.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   The policy relies on nuclear deterrence.

   Strict penalties act as a deterrence against theft.

   More examples (1)

   effective deterrence

2. An action taken by states or alliances of nations against equally powerful alliances to prevent hostile action.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   policy of deterrence

3. The art of producing in one's enemy the fear of attacking.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

4. The art of producing in one's enemy the fear of attacking. Nuclear deterrence: discouraging nuclear attack through the threat of nuclear retaliation.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • specifically
   • Uncountable

5. The action of discouraging an action or event by instilling doubt or fear of the penalty or punishment.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

Noun

1. a negative motivational influence

   Synonyms

   disincentive

   Broader terms

   rational motive

2. a communication that makes you afraid to try something

   Synonyms

   determentintimidation

   Broader terms

   discouragement

3. the act or process of discouraging actions or preventing occurrences by instilling fear or doubt or anxiety

   Broader terms

   hindrancehinderanceinterference