Semi-detemined to put off (5)

I believe the answer is:

deter

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'to put off' is the definition.
(both can mean to discourage)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for deter that I've seen before include "Discourage through fear of consequences" , "Put off (from an action)" , "Cause not to do something" , "Dishearten" , "Discourage or impede" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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