Do We Deploy for Defensive Reasons Only?

I just think words matter and what are messaging matters. I get concerned when I hear things that say we are deploying for defensive reasons only because I think that sends a message to our adversary or the enemy. There's ultimately a red line that we, we, the US says, if you cross this red line, that we are going to take action. But if you say we are here to deter and we are a deterrent, by the definition of Webster's definition, defense means you're going to repel an attack. Deterrent means you are going to coerce the enemy not to attack. And I, so I think deterrence is a stronger word.