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

Hoka Women’s Solimar Running Shoe For those who prefer a more discrete design, the Hoka Solimar features more subtle branding than the majority of shoes on this list. —Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 27 Dec. 2025

That approach has worked in Oura’s favor as consumers increasingly seek discrete distraction-free tech without screens, according to Jitesh Ubrani, a research manager covering the wearables industry for the International Data Corporation. —Lisa Eadicicco, CNN Money, 17 Dec. 2025

Ten years is simultaneously long enough to recognize long-term trends and short enough to be a discrete period in our memory. —Jelani Cobb, New Yorker, 5 Dec. 2025

Using that definition, scientists can explain basic puzzles about matter, like why protons are always paired with neutrons, and why the energy of an atom comes in discrete quantities. —Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 3 Dec. 2025