Synonyms of discrimination

discrimination

noun

di-ˌskri-mə-ˈnā-shən 

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

• distinction
• separation
• differentiation
• demarcation
• discreteness
• segregation
• isolation

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• confusion
• blurring

Synonym Chooser

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

Recent Examples of discrimination

The Well Beings Blog supports the critical health and wellbeing of all individuals, to raise awareness, reduce stigma and discrimination, and change the public discourse. —Wes Kilgore, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

Kimberly Richey, of Texas, to be Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Department of Education The department’s Office for Civil Rights manages policies that prevent discrimination and other policies related to civil rights. —Ally Goelz, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2025

Texas recently became the second state to pass a law banning algorithmic discrimination — that is, sanctioning operators of AI systems if those systems unfairly, for example, deny you a bank loan, a second job interview, or an insurance policy. —Adam Goldstein, National Review, 21 July 2025

The Trump administration has withheld government funding from Harvard and Columbia, among others, citing allegations of racial discrimination in admissions and antisemitism on campus. —Alexx Altman-Devilbiss, Baltimore Sun, 21 July 2025