Discreet vs Discrete: What's the Difference?
What's the Difference?
The word "discreet" means being careful and maintaining privacy, while "discrete" is used to mean separate and independent.
Memory Tip: discreet = secretive, discrete = separate entity
discreet ends with /t/, discrete ends with /t/
discreet /dɪˈskriːt/
adjectiveCareful and prudent in one's speech or actions to avoid causing offense or gaining attention.
Example:
The diplomat was discreet in his negotiations, ensuring that sensitive information was not disclosed to the media.
Common patterns:
discreet manner
discreet distance
discreet silence
discrete
Example:
The data was divided into discrete categories, each representing a distinct phase of the project, to ensure clarity in analysis.
Common patterns:
discrete units
discrete data
discrete mathematics
Common Mistakes
She was very discrete about her plans to change jobs.
She was very discreet about her plans to change jobs.
The word 'discreet' is correct here because it means being careful and maintaining privacy.
The data is presented in a discreet set of categories.
The data is presented in a discrete set of categories.
The word 'discrete' is correct here because it refers to separate and independent categories.
Quick Practice
0/2 correct1. The diplomat was ____ in his negotiations, ensuring that sensitive information was not disclosed to the media.
2. The data was divided into ____ categories, each representing a distinct phase of the project, to ensure clarity in analysis.
Other Confusing Words
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