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 main compartment opens up via a magnetic flap top, and on the bottom, there’s a discrete bottom zipper that has a mesh water bottle holder inside. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 13 July 2025

Gaming laptops need discrete GPUs and fast refresh rate displays. —Luke Larsen, Wired News, 12 July 2025

Barrett got to the nub of the issue: There is no discrete and immutable class of transgender individuals. —The Editors, National Review, 19 June 2025

This not only includes the United States—the Trump administration revoked some long-standing U.S. sanctions against Syria last month—but also Israel, whose officials have engaged in discrete talks with the Syrian administration of President Ahmed al-Sharaa for months. —Daniel R. Depetris, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025