Deterant vs. Deterrent — Which is Correct Spelling?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on March 29, 2024
"Deterant" is the incorrect spelling, while "Deterrent" is correct and means something that discourages or prevents a certain action.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Deterant or Deterrent
How to spell Deterrent?
Deterant
Incorrect Spelling
Deterrent
Correct Spelling
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Key Differences
Recall "deter" as the base word; just add "-rent" at the end.
Visualize a stop sign as a "deterrent" to recall the correct spelling.
Break it down: De-TERR-ent. Focus on the "TERR" as a central part of the word.
Remember the double "r" by thinking of the word "terror," another word that prevents comfort.
Think of "current" in terms of spelling; both have double "r" before "ent."
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How Do You Spell Deterrent Correctly?
Incorrect: Installing more street lights was seen as an effective deterant to nighttime burglaries.
Correct: Installing more street lights was seen as an effective deterrent to nighttime burglaries.
Incorrect: He thought the small fine would be a good deterant for minor offenses.
Correct: He thought the small fine would be a good deterrent for minor offenses.
Incorrect: The smell of the repellent acted as a natural deterant against mosquitoes.
Correct: The smell of the repellent acted as a natural deterrent against mosquitoes.
Incorrect: Some believe that harsher prison sentences serve as a deterant to crime.
Correct: Some believe that harsher prison sentences serve as a deterrent to crime.
Incorrect: The possibility of getting caught is a strong deterant for some potential cheaters.
Correct: The possibility of getting caught is a strong deterrent for some potential cheaters.
Deterrent Definitions
A factor or thing that discourages or prevents a certain action.
Strict penalties serve as a deterrent to crime.
Something used to discourage unwanted behavior or actions.
The alarm system is a deterrent against theft.
Anything that prevents or discourages progression.
The lack of funds is a major deterrent to the project's completion.
An agent or measure that inhibits or restrains.
The dog's bark was a deterrent to intruders.
A hindrance or impediment to potential wrongdoers.
High fences act as a deterrent to wild animals.
A thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something
Cameras are a major deterrent to crime
Able or intended to deter
The deterrent effect of heavy prison sentences
Tending to deter
Deterrent weapons.
Something that deters
A deterrent to theft.
A means of discouraging enemy attack, as by the threat of retaliation
A nuclear deterrent.
Serving to deter, preventing something from happening.
Something that deters.
Serving to deter.
That which deters or prevents.
Something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progress
Tending to deter;
The deterrent effects of high prices
Deterrent Meaning in a Sentence
The threat of detention acts as a deterrent to students skipping class.
His strict parents were a deterrent to him breaking curfew.
The high fence around the garden was a deterrent to the deer.
They installed surveillance cameras as a deterrent against theft.
She found that her stern warning was an effective deterrent.
The harsh chemicals in the product serve as a deterrent to pests.
Loud alarms are a common deterrent for burglars.
Having a guard dog is a strong deterrent to trespassers.
The teacher’s strict rules were a deterrent to misbehavior in the classroom.
The possibility of a fine is a deterrent to littering in public places.
Wearing a helmet is a deterrent to head injuries while biking.
The new law was introduced as a deterrent to speeding on highways.
Installing a security system is a good deterrent for home safety.
The fear of failing is a powerful deterrent to not studying for the exam.
The sign warning of surveillance cameras served as a deterrent at the entrance.
The heavy rain was a natural deterrent to the outdoor event.
The cold weather was a deterrent to going out for a walk.
The bitter taste of the medicine is a deterrent to children wanting to take it.
The risk of sunburn is a deterrent to spending too much time in the sun.
The threat of a lawsuit is a deterrent to illegal copying of software.
The steep price was a deterrent to buying the luxury car.
The long wait times were a deterrent to visiting the popular restaurant.
The teacher used extra homework as a deterrent against talking during class.
The presence of police at the event served as a deterrent to any troublemakers.
The complicated application process is a deterrent for some potential applicants.
Deterrent Idioms & Phrases
Natural deterrent
An inherent feature or condition that discourages actions or behavior.
The mountain's rugged terrain acts as a natural deterrent to development.
A strong deterrent
Something highly effective at preventing an action.
The risk of severe punishment is a strong deterrent for many criminals.
Psychological deterrent
A deterrent that works by influencing thoughts or fears.
The possibility of public embarrassment is a strong psychological deterrent for some people.
Deterrent effect
The influence of preventing certain actions or decisions.
The deterrent effect of the new regulations on smoking has been significant.
Legal deterrent
Laws or regulations intended to discourage certain behaviors.
Heavy fines serve as a legal deterrent to illegal dumping.
Serve as a deterrent
To act as a preventive measure.
The new policy will serve as a deterrent to anyone considering fraud.
Physical deterrent
A tangible measure taken to prevent undesired actions.
Barbed wire fences are a physical deterrent against intruders.
Economic deterrent
Factors that discourage actions due to financial implications.
High taxes on tobacco serve as an economic deterrent to smokers.
As a deterrent to
With the purpose of preventing a specific action or behavior.
The company implements strict security measures as a deterrent to theft.
Cultural deterrent
Aspects of culture that discourage certain behaviors or practices.
Social stigma is a cultural deterrent to discussing mental health openly.
Common Curiosities
What is the pronunciation of Deterrent?
Pronounced as "dih-TUR-uhnt."
Which vowel is used before Deterrent?
"A," as in "a deterrent."
Why is it called Deterrent?
It's derived from the verb "deter," which means to prevent or discourage from acting.
Which conjunction is used with Deterrent?
Any conjunction can be used, depending on the sentence.
Is Deterrent an adverb?
No, it's not an adverb.
Is Deterrent a negative or positive word?
Neutral, but often used in negative contexts.
What is the verb form of Deterrent?
"Deter."
What is the root word of Deterrent?
The root word is "deter."
Which article is used with Deterrent?
Either "a" or "the" based on context.
Is Deterrent a noun or adjective?
Deterrent can be both a noun and an adjective.
Is Deterrent a vowel or consonant?
Deterrent is a word containing both vowels and consonants.
What is the singular form of Deterrent?
Deterrent.
Which preposition is used with Deterrent?
Commonly "to" or "against," depending on the context.
Is the Deterrent term a metaphor?
No, but it can be used metaphorically.
How many syllables are in Deterrent?
There are 3 syllables.
What is the first form of Deterrent?
Deter.
What is the plural form of Deterrent?
Deterrents.
Is Deterrent a collective noun?
No, it's not a collective noun.
How do we divide Deterrent into syllables?
"De-ter-rent."
What part of speech is Deterrent?
It can be both a noun and an adjective.
What is another term for Deterrent?
Discouragement.
What is the second form of Deterrent?
Deterred.
What is a stressed syllable in Deterrent?
The second syllable, "ter," is stressed.
What is the opposite of Deterrent?
Encouragement or incentive.
What is the third form of Deterrent?
Deterred.
Is Deterrent a countable noun?
Yes, e.g., "several deterrents."
Which determiner is used with Deterrent?
Determiners like "this" or "that" can be used based on context.
How is Deterrent used in a sentence?
Example: "The presence of security cameras acted as a deterrent to potential thieves."
Is Deterrent an abstract noun?
Yes, when it refers to the concept of discouraging action.
Is the word Deterrent imperative?
No, it's not imperative.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
