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 Our cases instead focus on discrete wrongful conduct allegedly committed by Mr. Combs that would be considered state law crimes if proven. Aysha Bagchi, USA Today, 3 July 2025 As announced Monday, Warner Bros. Discovery will break apart like this: The Warner Bros. film and TV studio, HBO Max and Warner Bros.’ games and experiences division will be one discrete entity led by Zaslav. Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 9 June 2025 Sorry, Baby moves deftly between tones, not only from scene to scene, but within discrete conversations. Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 27 June 2025 Because CPUs and discrete video cards complete different tasks using their own RAM, these pools of memory are treated separately by the system. Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for discrete
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrete
Adjective
  • For a single taxpayer, the 12% tax rate applied on taxable income from $11,926 through $48,475 in 2025.
    Susan Tompor, Freep.com, 14 July 2025
  • The deduction is completely phased out for single filers earning above $150,000 and married couples with incomes above $250,000.
    Alain Sherter, CBS News, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Meeting the challenge of finger-level control Achieving separate movement for each robotic finger is a real challenge.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 11 July 2025
  • The rate is separate from sectoral tariffs placed on steel, aluminum and autos, and shortly copper.
    Jenni Reid, CNBC, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • White Lake Township Chief of Police Daniel Keller said in a news release the homeowner was alerted through his video surveillance system that seven individuals had broken into his detached garage.
    Mike Stunson July 10, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2025
  • The house features five bedrooms and one bathrooms. 5. $2.1 million, single-family residence in the 6100 block of Contra Costa Road The sale of the detached house in the 6100 block of Contra Costa Road in Oakland has been finalized.
    Bay Area Home Report, Mercury News, 2 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discrete.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrete. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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