as in single
not physically attached to another unit several discrete sections to this vast medical complex, including a college of pharmacology and a research center

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word discrete different from other adjectives like it?

The words distinct and separate are common synonyms of discrete. While all three words mean "not being each and every one the same," discrete strongly emphasizes individuality and lack of connection.

broke the job down into discrete stages

When can distinct be used instead of discrete?

The meanings of distinct and discrete largely overlap; however, distinct indicates that something is distinguished by the mind or eye as being apart or different from others.

two distinct versions

When could separate be used to replace discrete?

The synonyms separate and discrete are sometimes interchangeable, but separate often stresses lack of connection or a difference in identity between two things.

separate rooms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of discrete The government retains every conventional tool to raise privilege objections on the limited question-by-question basis foreseen here on a narrow and discrete ground. ArsTechnica, 21 May 2025 Tornadoes will be possible if discrete supercells develop, the weather service said. Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 19 May 2025 Tucked in between Palm Beach's elaborate, ornate mansions, The Brazilian Court Hotel has been a discrete retreat since the 1920s. Gaby Keiderling, Vogue, 14 Apr. 2025 Compact Integration Meets Thermal Resilience And Precision At just 2.22 mm², Symphonic is a highly integrated component that replaces multiple discrete timing devices with a single, configurable solution. Dave Altavilla, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for discrete
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrete
Adjective
  • For a team usually fizzing with creative attacking ideas, their reliance on a single goalscorer, along with a late addition to the team and an unusually clinical finisher from the edge of the box, is not the spread of goal-scoring responsibility we are used to seeing.
    Thom Harris, New York Times, 28 May 2025
  • But seeing that ship in space today was a hell of a moment for us, so congratulations to every single person who put time, effort, sweat, anything, into that rocket.
    Mike Wall, Space.com, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • The Center for Biological Diversity had filed a separate, similar lawsuit.
    Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 5 June 2025
  • The motor vehicle offenses are separate from charges filed against the teen on May 15, when he was charged with first-degree riot, conspiracy to commit first-degree riot and first-degree reckless endangerment.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 5 June 2025
Adjective
  • Investigators at the scene found the housing to a side view mirror, a front driver’s side bumper component and a detached front driver’s side wheel trim.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 19 May 2025
  • Cooking was done in a detached cookhouse, which also is open for viewing.
    Amy Bentley, Oc Register, 7 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discrete.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrete. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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