Definition

Noun: - Punishment intended as a warning to others: A severe or public punishment given to someone, not only for their own wrongdoing but primarily to discourage others from committing similar acts. It serves as a cautionary lesson.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The judge imposed a harsh sentence as a deterrent example to would-be criminals.
  • Making a deterrent example of the corrupt official was meant to restore public trust in the system.

Advanced Usage

• "to make a deterrent example of someone": To punish someone severely in a public manner specifically to warn others.
  • The authorities made a deterrent example of the ringleaders to prevent future riots.

Variants and Related Words

• Exemplary punishment (noun phrase): A synonym for "deterrent example," meaning punishment serving as a model or warning.
• Cautionary tale (noun phrase): A story or event that serves as a warning, often related in concept but not always involving formal punishment.

Synonyms

• Object lesson: A striking practical example of some principle or ideal, often negative.
• Warning: Something that serves to make one aware of danger or a problem.

Related Phrases

• Make an example of (idiomatic verb phrase): The most common phrase associated with this concept.
  • The coach decided to make an example of the player who broke team rules.

Noun

1. punishment intended as a warning to others
   • they decided to make an example of him