the act of preventing or dissuading someone from taking a particular action
example
The government implemented a strong deterrence strategy to prevent crime in the city.
synonyms
preventiondissuasionrestraint
word origin — from Latin deterrent- (stem of deterrere) 'to frighten away, deter' (from de- 'away' + terrere 'to frighten')
GRE Vocabulary — Set 144
Set 144 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: deterrence, transcendence, precarity, denunciation, idiosyncrasy. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
deterrence · noun/dɪˈtɜrəns/
the act of preventing or dissuading someone from taking a particular action
The government implemented a strong deterrence strategy to prevent crime in the city.
Synonyms: prevention, dissuasion, restraint
Origin: from Latin deterrent- (stem of deterrere) 'to frighten away, deter' (from de- 'away' + terrere 'to frighten')
transcendence · noun/trænˈsɛndəns/
the state of going beyond ordinary limits or surpassing typical bounds
The artist's work is a remarkable expression of transcendence, inviting viewers to experience emotions beyond the ordinary.
Synonyms: superiority, excellence, elevation
Origin: from Latin 'transcendentia', from 'transcendere' (to climb over, go beyond)
precarity · noun/prɪˈkɛr.ə.ti/
the state of being subject to uncertain job security and financial instability
Many gig workers live in a state of precarity, struggling to find stable employment and benefits.
Synonyms: insecurity, uncertainty, instability
Origin: The word precarity originates from the Latin 'precarius', meaning 'obtained by prayer or favor', which evolved into 'precarious' in Middle English, referring to situations dependent on chance or uncertain conditions.
denunciation · noun/dɪˌnʌn.siˈeɪ.ʃən/
the public condemnation of someone or something
The political leader faced public denunciation after the scandal was revealed, leading to widespread calls for his resignation.
Synonyms: condemnation, censure, denunciation
Origin: From Latin 'denuntiatio', from 'denuntiare' meaning 'to announce or proclaim, to denounce'.
idiosyncrasy · noun/ˌɪdiəˈsɪŋkrəsi/
a characteristic or habit that is peculiar to an individual
One of her most endearing idiosyncrasies is her habit of humming softly to herself while she works.
Synonyms: peculiarity, trait, quirk
Origin: Derived from the Greek word 'idiosynkrasia', meaning 'a peculiar temper', from 'idios' (one's own) + 'synkrasis' (mixing together).