prevent, stop, hinder, deter, avoid, restrain, prohibit preclude, bar, inhibit, withhold, block, curb, impede, obstruct, fend off, stave off, ward off, hold back, hold off, keep away, keep out, keep a... [more]
discouraging - preventing - dissuading - hindering - obstruct - thwarting - impeding - averting - restraining - inhibiting - repelling - warding off - fending off - stopping - blocking - precluding - forestalling - countering - opposing - frustrating - nullifying - neutralizing - staving off - checking - curbing - suppressing - repressing - holding back - keeping at bay - putting off - turning away - diverting - deflecting - disheartening - intimidating - scaring off - frightening away - alarming - warning off - cautioning - unsettling - unnerving - perturbing
Deterring refers to the act of preventing or discouraging someone or something from taking a specific action by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences. It is commonly used in contexts of security and defense where measures are taken to prevent undesirable actions by threats or demonstration of capability to impose significant costs. For example, deterring crime may involve increased police presence, harsher penalties, and public awareness campaigns.