Definition

The action of preventing someone from doing something or making someone less likely to do something.

Example

The new laws were designed as a determent to crime in the city.

Conversation

I read that having clear rules can be a strong determent for bad behavior.

That makes sense; people are less likely to break the rules if they know the consequences.

Exactly! It’s interesting how much structure can really help.

For sure, a little discipline can go a long way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Determent → It is formed from "deter" (from Latin "deterrere", meaning to frighten away) and the suffix "-ment" (meaning the result of an action). The word "determent" refers to the result of deterring or preventing something from happening.

Memory Tip

Think of 'deter' as meaning to frighten away, and '-ment' indicating the result of that action — so determent is the result of frightening something away.

Visually Confused Words