Synonyms of discrete

discrete

adjective

di-ˈskrēt 

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

• single
• separate
• detached
• private
• unconnected
• independent
• free
• individual
• disconnected
• freestanding
• unattached
• self-contained

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• connected
• joined
• attached
• linked
• adjoining

Synonym Chooser

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

Recent Examples of discrete

The versatile pants also have two discrete, zipper-back pockets and two side pockets. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 15 Aug. 2025

Warfare is now a persistent state, not a discrete event. —Diane Brady, Fortune, 15 Aug. 2025

Find those iconic horses emblazoned in silver onto the oakwood base of their Dry Air Diffuser, which conceals a discrete fan and ventilation system. —Austa Somvichian-Clausen, Robb Report, 14 Aug. 2025

Manufacturing innovation has historically followed a familiar arc: point solutions to fix discrete issues, application-level changes to improve efficiency, and system-level breakthroughs such as the assembly line. —Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025