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

Examples 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 Even the best mobile chips' integrated graphics processors (IGP) have a long way to go to catch the discrete GPUs of gaming laptops, but Intel's latest Arc Graphics 140V is the chipmaker's best yet. PCMAG, 27 Nov. 2024 By contrast, other manufacturers have tended to build their features as discrete parts, which can lead to rigidity. Aarian Marshall, WIRED, 25 Nov. 2024 There is a disconnect between these indiscriminate tactics and the discrete goals that Spencer identifies. John Spencer, Foreign Affairs, 18 Nov. 2024 That is increasingly becoming large, integrated graphics capabilities, so less need for discrete graphics in the market going forward. Sean Hollister, The Verge, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for discrete 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrete
Adjective
  • There is not a single coach in the history of football free of criticism.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024
  • Popeye and Tintin will soon be free to roam, punch, and investigate without a single copyright holder in sight.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 17 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • The area features 12 separate spots to get your fill, and every local’s got their own ideas about which is best.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 13 Dec. 2024
  • In a separate video, longtime viewers shared their appreciation for Scarborough's steady-handed reporting and his tendency to reach out when fans wrote into the show.
    Anna Kaufman, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Stanley received more than 90 reports worldwide over problems relating to the detached lids — 38 of those complaints were tied to burn injuries, with 11 of those requiring medical attention.
    Alexandra Banner, CNN, 13 Dec. 2024
  • This tiny ecosystem is part of a detached unit of Death Valley National Park, protected within the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge since 1984.
    Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near discrete

Cite this Entry

“Discrete.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrete. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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