as in to dissuade
to steer (a person) from an activity or course of action
we tried to deter him from his crazy scheme, but to no avail
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Recent Examples of deter
The violence failed to deter workers.
—
Jamie L. Lareau, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
Still, Tyrrell could not be deterred.
—Bill Hirschman, Sun Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026
This anti-theft sling bag has lockable zippers, a hidden back pocket, and RFID-blocking technology—all of which will deter potential pickpockets while docked at each port.
—Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 14 Apr. 2026
Potter attempted to climb the stone wall outside their home and fell on his head, but that didn’t deter him in the slightest.
—Alyssa Modos, PEOPLE, 14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for deter
Jamie L. Lareau, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
Still, Tyrrell could not be deterred.
—Bill Hirschman, Sun Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026
This anti-theft sling bag has lockable zippers, a hidden back pocket, and RFID-blocking technology—all of which will deter potential pickpockets while docked at each port.
—Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 14 Apr. 2026
Potter attempted to climb the stone wall outside their home and fell on his head, but that didn’t deter him in the slightest.
—Alyssa Modos, PEOPLE, 14 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for deter
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deter
Verb
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Abeln said the coalition is concerned that the presence of immigration officers in courthouse parking lots will dissuade others — even citizens — from going to the building for hearings or to handle typical business like traffic tickets.—
Hannah Fry,
Los Angeles Times,
10 Apr. 2026
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Those not dissuaded by this fact will also get a chance to help out a good cause.—
Bryan Hood,
Robb Report,
9 Apr. 2026
Verb
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The income that a proficiency with needle and thread commands relative to the skills needed and the physical toll of bending over detailed work for hours likely discourages teenagers and young adults from heeding Bae’s advice, fashion industry experts said.—
Anne D'Innocenzio,
Boston Herald,
12 Apr. 2026
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Make your lawn and garden less suitable to creeping Charlie to discourage it from returning.—
Brandee Gruener,
Southern Living,
12 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Deter.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deter. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.
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