discourage

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb try to prevent; show opposition to
  2. verb deprive of courage or hope; take away hope from; cause to feel discouraged
  3. verb admonish or counsel in terms of someone's behavior

Etymology

From Middle French descourager (modern French décourager), from Old French descouragier, from des- and corage. By surface analysis, dis- + courage.

In classic literature

Synonyms

deter

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