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

Some older Americans are shut out of the labor market because of age discrimination or lack of suitable jobs. —Allison Schrager, Boston Herald, 22 Apr. 2026

Wells Fargo and mortgage discrimination claims This is not the first time Wells Fargo has faced discrimination claims about its home-lending practices. —Chase Jordan april 22, Charlotte Observer, 22 Apr. 2026

Kylie Jenner is named in a new lawsuit from her former live-in housekeeper, who claims other staffers at the reality star’s home subjected her to religious and racial discrimination, as well as bullying, and that Jenner failed to act in her defense. —Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 21 Apr. 2026

The high court recently has backed other claims of religious discrimination while taking a more skeptical view of LGBTQ+ rights. —Lindsay Whitehurst, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026