1. to make someone less willing or enthusiastic about expanding a business, territory, or operation
The government policies discourage expansion of factories in urban areas.
As políticas governamentais desestimulam a expansão de fábricas em áreas urbanas.
2. to create obstacles or negative conditions that prevent or limit growth
High taxes discourage expansion by small businesses.
Altos impostos desestimulam a expansão de pequenos negócios.