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

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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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of discrimination After the investigation, the regional human resources manager planned to hold a staff meeting to talk with maintenance workers about race discrimination. Miami Herald, 7 July 2025 The Maine Human Rights Act, like California’s 2013 bill, protects trans people from discrimination. Lia Russell updated July 7, Sacbee.com, 7 July 2025 Meanwhile, 31 states prohibit some form of discrimination against people based on their gender identity. Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 6 July 2025 The Supreme Court on June 27 sided with a group of parents who want to withdraw their elementary school children from class when storybooks with LGBTQ+ characters are being read, another move that favors claims of religious discrimination over other values, like gay rights. Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 28 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for discrimination
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrimination
Noun
  • Disinformation — the purposeful bending of, or negating, the truth — is used to destroy reputations, shatter trust, change political regimes, win at all costs, and muddy our distinctions between what is real and true, and what is blatantly false and biased.
    Davia Temin, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025
  • At least one member appeared to struggle to understand the distinction between a vaccine’s efficacy and its effectiveness.
    Lisa Jarvis, Twin Cities, 3 July 2025
Noun
  • Zen training also induces samadhi (i.e., the experience of no separation), giving rise to wisdom and harmony with the larger picture.
    Ginny Whitelaw, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • The sheer finish acts as a great base to layer makeup on, without the worry of separation.
    Cierra Black, Essence, 30 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Discrimination.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrimination. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

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