disincentive

noun

dis·​in·​cen·​tive ˌdis-in-ˈsen-tiv 

: deterrent

Examples of disincentive in a Sentence

We considered volunteering, but the complicated application process was a disincentive.

The complicated application process was a disincentive to volunteering our time.

Recent Examples on the Web

Besides the basic issue of equity, Proposition 13 thus provides a huge disincentive to sell or redevelop your property. — Nolan Gray, Oc Register, 21 June 2026

This creates financial disincentives for graduating medical students and residents to enter the pediatric subspecialty workforce. — Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026

Government interference in the market — using taxpayer money to build affordable housing, subsidizing mortgages, imposing zoning restrictions — creates another set of disincentives. — Allison Schrager, Boston Herald, 31 May 2026

Government interference in the market — using taxpayer money to build affordable housing, subsidizing mortgages, imposing zoning restrictions — creates another set of disincentives. — Allison Schrager, Twin Cities, 28 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1946, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for disincentive

• inattentive
• agentive
• attentive
• incentive
• inventive
• preventive
• retentive