adjective

discrete

/dɪˈskrit/ · say it: dis·KREET

separate and distinct

In Formal & Academic

In more detail

1. (adjective) separate and distinct from others; not connected or continuous

2. (adjective) careful and not likely to draw attention or cause embarrassment; unobtrusive

Examples

1. The data was divided into discrete categories for analysis.
2. The security guard kept a discrete distance from the guests.

How to use discrete

Discrete has two related meanings: first, it describes things that are separate, distinct, or not connected, especially used in technical contexts like mathematics and computer science. Second, it can mean careful and unobtrusive, though this sense overlaps somewhat with the homophone 'discreet' and is less commonly used in modern English. The mathematical/technical sense dominates contemporary usage.

Common phrases

discrete units
discrete variables
discrete choice
discrete components
discrete events
remain discrete

Synonyms

separate · distinct · individual · disconnected · unobtrusive

Opposites

connected · continuous · obvious

Word family

discretely (adverb) · discreteness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners frequently confuse discrete with discreet (meaning tactful or careful); they are homophones with different meanings and etymologies. Discrete relates to separateness; discreet relates to tact.

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