DETER Synonyms: 16 Similar and Opposite Words

deter

verb

di-ˈtər

Definition of deter

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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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deter The risk of Iranian attacks has deterred most shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, an important conduit for global energy supplies, since the start of the conflict, sending shockwaves through the world economy. — Yasmine Ghania, USA Today, 2 Aug. 2026 Building a budget around uncertain money could deter lenders, officials said, threatening the district’s ability to secure short-term borrowing and make payroll. — Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026 Pick Plants That Deter Wasps Wasps are attracted to bright colors and sweet nectar, so if wasps visit your porch every year, consider switching to plants that deter them. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 1 Aug. 2026 The fee could deter talented individuals, pushing them to competitor nations. — Anna Esaki-Smith, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for deter

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deter

Verb

This has not dissuaded residents from demanding action from city officials.

— Noah Daly August 2, Idaho Statesman, 2 Aug. 2026
The plaintiffs said studios will now be dissuaded from buying the rights to the movie, knowing that a version of it could be released by a third party for free.

— Mary Cunningham, CBS News, 30 July 2026

Definition of dissuade

Verb

In 2023, the city-state’s Ministry of Home Affairs shared a release specifically discouraging citizens from wearing or displaying articles that address the Israel-Palestine conflict.

— Hattie Lindert, Pitchfork, 2 Aug. 2026
The all-inclusive packages discourage guests from spending outside their resorts.

— Emese Maczko, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of discourage

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detentions

deter

deterge

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“Deter.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deter. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of deter

verb

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