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

Once the Black Equity study is complete later this year, the commission will engage an independent third party to conduct an economic analysis and make recommendations about how to repair the harms caused by discrimination. —Anna Alejo, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026

Lucas’s charge of discrimination accuses Nike of violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. —Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 4 Feb. 2026

Minnesota law bars discrimination against trans people at work, in school, and in public accommodations; mandates gender-affirming care coverage under most insurance plans; outlaws out-of-state interference with gender-affirming care; and bans gender conversion therapy. —Krys Malcolm Belc, Vogue, 3 Feb. 2026

Priority is given to filmmakers based in Palestine, in lower income countries, or in regions where discrimination against Palestinian voices restricts access to funding opportunities. —Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 3 Feb. 2026