deterrence
deterrence Lexical Profile
deterrence Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The action or process of discouraging an action or preventing an occurrence by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.
"Legal scholars often debate whether stricter sentencing guidelines serve as an effective form of deterrence against white-collar crime."
The geopolitical strategy of maintaining strong defensive capabilities in order to discourage rival states from initiating a conflict.
"Throughout the second half of the twentieth century, international diplomacy relied heavily on the doctrine of mutual deterrence."
Word Nuance & Usage
'Deterrence' refers to the abstract act, policy, or principle of discouraging an action, whereas 'deterrent' is used for the specific thing, measure, or factor that actually discourages it.
• Rhymes for deterrence
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the mid-19th century from the verb 'deter' plus the suffix '-ence', ultimately deriving from the Latin 'deterrere', meaning 'to frighten away or discourage' (from 'de-' meaning 'away' and 'terrere' meaning 'to frighten').