a dissuasive example

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dissuasive example" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an example intended to discourage someone from taking a particular action or making a specific choice. Example: "The story of the failed startup served as a dissuasive example for aspiring entrepreneurs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In the current market and economic environment, we must take into account that a broadcaster with annual revenue of several tens of billions or even hundreds of millions of forints will not be affected by a fine to the tune of a few hundred thousand forints, which will not prevent it from repeating its infringing conduct and will not set a dissuasive example for other broadcasters.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It will have a dissuasive value".

Independent

Mr. Montebourg rejected such talk in a television interview late Saturday and said that nationalization remained on the table as a "dissuasive weapon" if ArcelorMittal failed to stick to its commitments for the Florange site.

The New York Times

It is worth mentioning that this spreading has a dissuasive effect.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

The department continued: "Mexico is aware of the existing risks in the region, but, according to international standards, lethal force must be used only when the lives of people are in immediate danger and not as a dissuasive measure".

Huffington Post

Defense Minister Williams Mansilla, who announced the deployment of elite soldiers from the Kaibil base in northern Guatemala on Thursday, said it was a "dissuasive measure in order to avoid these kind of lamentable incidents".

Vice

The suggestion of an "ethical dilemma" by the authors may strike a dissuasive chord.

Genetics in Medicine

Sexual harassment was considered infrequent or absent " the white coat defends us, it is a dissuasive element ".

Human Resources for Health

The fact that these cameras are signposted enables a dissuasive approach to the prevention of uncivil or violent behavior.

BMC Health Services Research

In southern Belgium, it is forbidden to fence hunting estates, but artificial feeding has been practiced in recent years as supplementation during the winter, as a dissuasive measure aiming to reduce crop damage by wild boar or as attractive measure during hunting season.

BMC Veterinary Research

A contemporary example?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dissuasive example", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or choice the example is meant to discourage. Providing specific details about the negative consequences can enhance the dissuasive effect.

Common error

Avoid using "a dissuasive example" in casual conversation. Its slightly formal tone is more appropriate for written reports, academic papers, or professional presentations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dissuasive example" functions as a noun phrase, where 'dissuasive' modifies 'example'. The primary grammatical function is to describe a specific instance intended to discourage a particular action or behavior. As Ludwig AI points out, it sets a negative precedent.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a dissuasive example" is a grammatically sound construction used to describe an instance intended to discourage certain behaviors or decisions by highlighting negative outcomes. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it functions as a noun phrase with a formal tone, making it more suitable for professional or academic contexts. While not very common, its meaning is clear and its purpose is to deter or discourage through the presentation of undesirable results. Semantically related alternatives include "a cautionary tale" and "a discouraging instance". When employing this phrase, be specific about the consequences to enhance its dissuasive effect, and consider the formality of the context to ensure appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a discouraging instance

Substitutes 'dissuasive' with 'discouraging' and 'example' with 'instance', maintaining a similar meaning while using more common vocabulary.

a discouraging model

Synonymous but slightly more formal, swapping "example" for "model".

a deterrent illustration

Replaces 'dissuasive' with 'deterrent' and 'example' with 'illustration', both suggesting a discouraging effect but with slightly different connotations.

a sobering lesson

Highlights the educational aspect, suggesting the example teaches a serious and potentially discouraging truth.

a cautionary tale

Shifts the focus to a narrative that warns of potential dangers or negative consequences.

an admonitory case

Uses 'admonitory' to emphasize the warning aspect and 'case' as a more formal alternative to 'example'.

a negative precedent

Highlights the potential for the example to set an undesirable standard for future situations.

a warning sign

Simplifies the expression to indicate something that signals potential danger or discouragement.

a bad influence

Focuses on the capacity to discourage or negatively affect choices.

a chilling reminder

Emphasizes the unsettling nature of the example, intended to dissuade through fear.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a dissuasive example" in a sentence?

To effectively use "a dissuasive example", provide context that clearly outlines the negative consequences or undesirable outcomes associated with the example. This helps to reinforce the dissuasive nature of the situation. For instance, you might say, "The company's previous failed marketing campaign served as "a dissuasive example", leading to a more cautious approach this time."

What are some alternatives to "a dissuasive example"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "a cautionary tale", "a discouraging instance", or "a deterrent illustration". These alternatives offer similar meanings while potentially fitting better with the specific tone or style of your writing.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "a dissuasive example"?

The phrase "a dissuasive example" is best suited for formal or professional contexts where the goal is to discourage a particular action or decision. It's often used in reports, presentations, or academic writing where the tone is more serious and analytical.

What makes "a dissuasive example" different from a typical example?

While a typical example serves to illustrate or clarify a point, "a dissuasive example" specifically aims to discourage certain behaviors or decisions by highlighting negative consequences. It carries a stronger warning element than a neutral example.