chilling effect

American  

noun

1. a discouraging or deterring effect, especially one resulting from a restrictive law or regulation.

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Etymology

Origin of chilling effect

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

"This has had a chilling effect on my ability to conduct public interest journalism with source relationships damaged and, in some cases, destroyed."

From BBC

Meanwhile, rival firms—those in the same sectors but without Washington ties—face a chilling effect.

From The Wall Street Journal

While the repression had an initial chilling effect on the demonstrations, it also gave Iranians another reason to oppose their theocratic rulers.

From The Wall Street Journal

The repression had a chilling effect on the demonstrations, but also gave Iranians another reason to oppose their theocratic rulers.

From The Wall Street Journal

Critics argue that the campaign amounts to retribution and will have a chilling effect on free speech.

From Barron's