deterrence
UK: dɪˈterəns | US: dɪˈtɜːrəns
n. the action of discouraging an action or event through instilling doubt or fear of consequences
n. (military/political) a strategy or measure intended to prevent hostile actions by making their costs seem unacceptable
The word traces back to Latin deterre, combining de- (away) and terrere (to frighten), reflecting the core idea of "frightening someone away." Over time, deter evolved in English (16th century) as a verb, and deterrence emerged in the 18th century to nominalize the concept of prevention through intimidation. Its modern usage often ties to Cold War-era military strategies (e.g., nuclear deterrence), but it broadly applies to psychological or systemic discouragement.
The high fines act as a deterrence against illegal parking.
Nuclear deterrence relies on the threat of mutual destruction.
Visible security cameras provide a strong deterrence to theft.
The policy aims to enhance deterrence by increasing penalties.
Critics argue that harsh punishments lack long-term deterrence value.