as in distinction
the state of being kept distinct in her mind there did not exist a discrimination between the imaginary and the real

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the noun discrimination differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of discrimination are acumen, discernment, insight, penetration, and perception. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," discrimination stresses the power to distinguish and select what is true or appropriate or excellent.

the discrimination that develops through listening to a lot of great music

Where would acumen be a reasonable alternative to discrimination?

The words acumen and discrimination can be used in similar contexts, but acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

When is discernment a more appropriate choice than discrimination?

Although the words discernment and discrimination have much in common, discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When might insight be a better fit than discrimination?

While in some cases nearly identical to discrimination, insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When would penetration be a good substitute for discrimination?

The meanings of penetration and discrimination largely overlap; however, penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.

lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles

When could perception be used to replace discrimination?

The words perception and discrimination are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).

a novelist of keen perception into human motives

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 discrimination Despite historic discrimination and trauma, Native communities continue to persist, said Joaquin Tarango, a citizen of Wilton Rancheria and the tribal community relations advisor to President Luke Wood. Emma Hall, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2025 Over the last year, the Suns have faced five lawsuits from current and former employees, some alleging discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination and other issues. Doug Haller, New York Times, 24 Sep. 2025 The award aims to raise awareness of social issues including environment, poverty and discrimination through film. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 24 Sep. 2025 CommentaryCareers Gen Z’s hiring nightmare is really about discrimination. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 24 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for discrimination
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrimination
Noun
  • Asteroids are larger rocks in space, but there's no official distinction.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 29 Sep. 2025
  • One crucial distinction, though, comes from how the question is phrased.
    Jack Royston, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • During Christmas dinner, Martha (72) announces her separation after discovering her husband’s affair with her best friend, upending the holiday as her children and their partners confront their own romantic issues.
    Anna Marie de la Fuente, Variety, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Here's everything to know about Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's separation.
    Caroline Blair, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discrimination.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrimination. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

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