discrete
discrete — adjective
- discretepositive
- more discretecomparative
- most discretesuperlative
1. existing as a separate thing or unit that is not joined with or mixed into other
existing as a separate thing or unit that is not joined with or mixed into other things
The experiment tracked three discrete stages of plant growth over two months.
collocation: discrete stages
Devika organized her notes into discrete folders for each school subject.
attributive use: discrete + noun
The park has discrete areas for picnics, dog walks, and children's play.
collocation: discrete areas
Aoi kept each client's records in a discrete file to avoid confusion.
Although the two problems seem similar, they are discrete and need different answers.
predicative use: be + discrete
- discrete stages
- discrete categories
- discrete units
- discrete areas
- discrete parts
- discrete groups
- discrete entities
- discrete components
- separate
more common and general; discrete emphasizes clear boundaries between items
- distinct
focuses on noticeable difference; discrete highlights physical or conceptual separation
- individual
stresses singleness; discrete adds the idea of non-overlap
- continuous
the opposite when describing a sequence or range without breaks
- integrated
opposite when parts are combined into a unified whole
Grammar Patterns
discrete + noun
be + discrete
remain + discrete
Usage Note
Do not confuse with discreet (spelled -ee-), which means 'careful and cautious in behavior or speech.' Discrete (spelled -ete-) always relates to separation and distinctness.