When To Use “Discrete” or “Discreet”
Discrete is an adjective that describes a noun as “separate, distinct, or individual.” Discreet, on the other hand, is an adjective that describes someone or something as “cautious or unnoticeable.”
- We divide our services into discrete categories to better serve our clients.
- The private investigator was very discreet when conducting surveillance.
“Discrete” vs. “Discreet”
Discrete and discreet are homophones—words that have the same pronunciation but different meanings and spellings.
These types of words confuse native speakers and English language learners alike. Below, we’ll help you learn the difference between these terms by thoroughly reviewing what they mean and showing you how to use them in a sentence.
By the time you’re done reading this blog post, you’ll be an expert on the distinctions between discrete and discreet.
Let’s begin!
What Does “Discrete” Mean?
Discrete is an adjective that describes a noun as “an individual or separate entity.” For example, a waiting room is a discrete part of a doctor’s office. If something is discrete, that means it’s “characterized by its distinct parts or elements.”
In mathematics, the term discrete can describe a variable that takes on distinct, countable values.
Synonyms for “Discrete”
Here are a few synonyms you can employ when using discrete to mean “apart or detached from others.”
1. Distinct
2. Separate
3. Individual
4. Different
5. Independent
What Does “Discreet” Mean?
Discreet is an adjective that means “cautious, or unnoticeable.” It describes someone or something as not intending to attract attention. If someone is discreet, that means they are “careful in one’s speech or actions in order to keep a secret, avoid causing offense, or to gain an advantage.
Synonyms for “Discreet”
Synonyms for “discreet” when used to mean “not drawing attention” are:
1. Secretive
2. Inconspicuous
3. Unnoticeable
Synonyms for “discreet” when used to mean “cautious” include:
4. Prudent
5. Wary
Using “Discrete” and “Discreet” Correctly in Your Writing
When it comes to using discrete and discreet correctly in your writing, remember these points:
- Discrete means “separate, individual, or divided.”
- Discreet means “cautious,” “unnoticeable,” or “secretive.”
LanguageTool is an intelligent writing assistant that guarantees the correct use of homophones, including discrete and discreet, bear and bare, and any other commonly confused words.
