discrete
4 synonyms and 3 antonyms for discrete, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Separate and distinct from other things, rather than continuous or connected.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use discrete
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
discrete units
discrete steps
discrete values
Etymology
From Latin discretus, "separated," the same root as "discreet" — the two words split apart in spelling and meaning over time.
Full origin of discrete →Frequently asked questions
What does “discrete” mean?
The word “discrete” means separate and distinct from other things, rather than continuous or connected. In plain terms, clearly separate or distinct, not blended with anything else.
How do you pronounce “discrete”?
“Discrete” is pronounced dih-SKREET (/dɪˈskɹit/ in IPA).
How do you use “discrete” in a sentence?
Here is “discrete” used in a sentence: “The project was broken down into several discrete stages.”
What is the opposite of “discrete”?
The opposite of “discrete” — its antonyms — are continuous, integrated and multiplexed.
What part of speech is “discrete”?
“Discrete” is an adjective.
Where does the word “discrete” come from?
The word “discrete” comes from Latin. From Latin discretus, "separated," the same root as "discreet" — the two words split apart in spelling and meaning over time.
Is “discrete” a common word?
“Discrete” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between discrete and discreet?
Discrete and discreet are commonly confused homophones with different meanings: discrete means separate and distinct, as in discrete categories, while discreet means careful or unobtrusive in behavior, as in being discreet about a secret. Mixing them up is one of the most frequent spelling errors in English.
What does discrete mean in mathematics or data contexts?
In mathematics and data contexts, discrete describes values or units that are separate and countable rather than continuous, such as discrete data points or discrete variables, as opposed to a continuous range of values. This technical use is common in statistics and computer science.
Is discrete the correct spelling for describing tactful behavior?
No, the correct spelling for tactful or careful behavior is discreet, not discrete. Discrete only refers to things being separate or distinct, so using it for tactfulness is a common but incorrect substitution.
