Word of the Week

deterrent (noun)

This word can be also used as adjective, but we are unlikely to use it ourselves at this level.

Meaning – something that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something thing.

Example of using it in a sentence: “CCT cameras are a major deterrent in high street crime.”

Spelling Tip – The prefix ‘de’ means to stop and the suffix ‘ent’ means action. Therefore, the word means “to stop the action”. The only bit is in the middle and that double ‘rr’. Think about being at a zoo where there is both a friendly Rope stopping you stepping on the plants around the enclosure. Some plants and then a less then friendly Rail stopping you getting real close to the dangerous animals. The Rope and Rail are stopping you get closer.

de + terr + ent

Use the word as many times throughout the week as you can. This can be verbally, in your written work or listen out for other people using it.