a powerful deterrent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a powerful deterrent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that effectively discourages or prevents a particular action or behavior. Example: "The strict penalties for cheating serve as a powerful deterrent to students considering dishonest behavior during exams."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The militants' presence was tolerated by a Turkish government that saw them as a powerful deterrent to the increasing power of Syria's Kurdish political party, the Democratic Union Party, and the Syrian Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units, or YPG.

Los Angeles Times

Pyongyang's perceived need for a powerful deterrent has only increased since Kim Jong Un took power six years ago this month.

The Washington Post

"Form a powerful deterrent".

The New York Times

And shame seems to be a powerful deterrent.

The Economist

The evidence suggests that plain packaging is a powerful deterrent.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Quinn is hoping disclosure will be a powerful deterrent.

The New York Times

It can also send a powerful deterrent message.

The Guardian

Such agreements can be a powerful deterrent to new investors.

The New York Times

But the threat of criminal prosecution acts as a powerful deterrent.

The New York Times

"And it's a powerful deterrent if people consider their actions could end up on YouTube".

The New York Times

"The passage of the bill, in many ways, would be a powerful deterrent," Mr. Kolb said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a powerful deterrent", ensure the context clearly identifies what is being deterred and what is providing the deterrence. This makes your writing more precise and impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "a powerful deterrent" when the evidence suggests only a weak or uncertain effect. Exaggerating the strength of the deterrent can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a powerful deterrent" primarily functions as a noun phrase that acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something that serves to strongly discourage or prevent a particular action or behavior, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a powerful deterrent" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe something that effectively discourages a specific action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and science. Its function is primarily to act as a noun phrase, denoting something that prevents or reduces the likelihood of unwanted behavior. While it maintains a neutral register, it's suitable for both formal and informal communication. Alternatives such as "strong deterrent" or "effective deterrent" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. Remember to use this phrase accurately, ensuring that what you're describing genuinely serves as a significant discouragement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong deterrent

Emphasizes the strength of the deterrent.

effective deterrent

Focuses on the effectiveness of the deterrent.

significant deterrent

Highlights the importance of the deterrent.

major disincentive

Uses a different term to convey a similar meaning of discouragement.

formidable obstacle

Shifts the focus to the obstacle created by the deterrent.

powerful discouragement

Replaces 'deterrent' with a more general term 'discouragement'.

substantial impediment

Uses a more formal term 'impediment' to suggest prevention.

strong preventive measure

Highlights the action of preventing rather than deterring.

serious inhibiting factor

Introduces the concept of inhibition as a means of deterrence.

compelling reason not to

Focuses on the reasoning behind the deterrence.

FAQs

How can "a powerful deterrent" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "a powerful deterrent" is used to describe something that effectively discourages or prevents a particular action. For example, "The threat of a lawsuit served as "a powerful deterrent" against infringement."

What are some alternatives to saying "a powerful deterrent"?

Alternatives to "a powerful deterrent" include "strong deterrent", "effective deterrent", or "major disincentive". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a powerful deterrent" or "an effective deterrent"?

Both "a powerful deterrent" and "an effective deterrent" are grammatically correct and commonly used. "Powerful" emphasizes the strength, while "effective" emphasizes the capability to produce a desired result. Use the one that better fits the nuance you wish to convey.

Can "a powerful deterrent" be used in formal and informal writing?

Yes, "a powerful deterrent" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. While it's a relatively strong phrase, it isn't overly technical or jargony, making it versatile across different contexts.