Deter Meaning and Definition
Deter
Pronunciation
/dɪˈtɛr/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To discourage or prevent someone from doing something, often by making it seem unpleasant or unattractive.
Examples
1. “The high price of the tickets will deter many people from attending the concert.”
2. “The warning signs are intended to deter drivers from speeding in the school zone.”
Synonyms
1. Discourage
2. Prevent
3. Hinder
Antonyms
1. Encourage
2. Support
3. Facilitate
Additional Information
The word “deter” can be used in a variety of contexts, including business, education, and personal relationships. For example, a company might deter its employees from using their personal phones during work hours by implementing a strict policy. In education, a teacher might deter students from cheating on a test by closely monitoring the classroom. In personal relationships, a person might deter their partner from smoking by expressing their concerns about the health risks.
The word “deter” can also be used in a more subtle way, such as by using persuasion or negotiation to discourage someone from doing something. For example, a manager might deter an employee from quitting their job by offering them a raise or a promotion.
In some cases, the word “deter” can have a negative connotation, implying that someone is being prevented from doing something they want to do. However, it can also have a positive connotation, implying that someone is being protected from harm or danger. For example, a law that deters people from driving drunk is intended to protect them from the risks of injury or death.
Etymology
The word “deter” comes from the Latin word “deterrere,” which means “to frighten away” or “to scare off.” This word is a combination of “de” (meaning “away” or “from”) and “terrere” (meaning “to frighten” or “to scare”).
Usage Notes
The word “deter” can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal contexts, it is often used in writing, such as in business reports or academic papers. In informal contexts, it is often used in conversation, such as in discussions with friends or family members.
Cultural References
The word “deter” has been used in a variety of cultural references, including in literature, music, and film. For example, in the novel “1984” by George Orwell, the totalitarian government uses propaganda and surveillance to deter people from rebelling against its authority. In the song “Deterrent” by the band Tool, the lyrics describe a person who is trying to deter others from following in their footsteps.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
1. “Deter someone from doing something”: This phrase means to discourage or prevent someone from doing something.
2. “Deterrent effect”: This phrase refers to the effect of something that deters or discourages people from doing something.
Collocations
1. “Deter someone from doing something”
2. “Deterrent effect”
3. “Deterrent measures”
Frequency of Use
The word “deter” is a relatively common word in modern language, with a frequency of use of around 1.5 per 10,000 words.
Common Misspellings
1. “Detur”
2. “Diter”
3. “Dettor”