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 karting games that ran on previous appliances allowed racers to compete on only a series of discrete tracks. —Ian Bogost, The Atlantic, 2 Apr. 2025

All this is controlled via a discrete pusher hidden on the watch head’s top flank, which is revealed when the case is removed from its housing and rotated 90 degrees. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2025

There’s no way that happens in a single, discrete meeting. —George Bradt, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

Job Interviews Any candidate treating a job interview as a discrete meeting is doomed to failure. —George Bradt, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025