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

In previous administrations, pressure on the Fed generally was done in a more discrete manner. —Jeff Cox, CNBC, 19 Sep. 2025

And anyone who’s been there will tell you, nothing is discrete at the Monaco Yacht Show, so please stay tuned for my full preview. —Bill Springer, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025

The exterior features a discrete zippered laptop pocket on the back, a stretchy mesh water bottle holder on the side, and a slim, zippered front compartment perfect for stashing your keys, passport, and phone. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 18 Sep. 2025

At RoboSense, engineers restructured LiDAR architecture, consolidating discrete components into single chips and reducing assembly costs. —Ni Tao, Interesting Engineering, 15 Sep. 2025