Definition

Having the effect of persuading someone not to do something; intended to discourage or prevent an action.

Example

The teacher gave a dissuasive speech to discourage students from cheating on exams.

Conversation

I heard that some friends are trying to convince you to skydive this weekend.

Yeah, but honestly, I'm feeling a bit dissuasive about it.

I get that; it can be pretty scary to jump out of a plane.

Exactly! I just think it's better to stay on solid ground for now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dissuasive → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "suadere" (meaning to advise or persuade). The word "dissuasive" means advising someone against something or persuading them to not do something.

Memory Tip

Think of being advised 'against' ('dis-') something — that's what dissuasive means.

Visually Confused Words