deter
/dɪˈtɜː(ɹ)/verb
To stop something from happening, or discourage someone from doing it.
Example sentences
- “Bright outdoor lighting can deter burglars from targeting a home.”
- “High prices deterred many young families from buying homes downtown.”
Often followed by 'from': nothing deterred her from trying. The noun 'deterrent' is common in policy and crime writing.