deterrent       
noun [ C ] uk/dɪˈter.ənt/ us/dɪˈter.ənt/
C2 威慑力量;遏制因素;制止物
something that deters people from doing something
  a nuclear deterrent 核威慑力 
 Tougher prison sentences may act/serve as a deterrent to other would-be offenders. 从严判决可以起到震慑其他潜在犯罪者的作用。 
 - More examples
 - Some people say that capital punishment acts as a deterrent.
 - Drink-driving is one case where severe punishment seems to work as a deterrent.
 - I should think the smell of her breath must act as a deterrent to any man.
 - They executed him, as a deterrent to any other young soldiers thinking of trying to desert from the army.
 - As a deterrent, they have imposed a heavy fine for late payment.