Understanding the Difference Between Discreet and Discrete

Understanding the Difference Between Discreet and Discrete

Discreet vs. Discrete: What’s the Difference?

Today, let’s learn about two words that sound the same but mean different things: discreet and discrete.

History of the Words

Both words come from Latin. “Discreet” comes from “discretus,” which means being careful and wise. “Discrete” also comes from “discretus,” but it means something separate or different.

How to Use Them

Discreet is an adjective. We use it to describe someone or something that is careful or quiet to avoid being noticed.

• She was discreet about her plans to move.
• He used a discreet voice in the library.
• The cat was discreet as it sneaked around the garden.
• The gift was hidden in a discreet place.
• The spy was discreet in his actions.

Discrete is also an adjective. We use it to talk about things that are separate or distinct from each other.

• Each number on the list is a discrete value.
• The puzzle pieces are discrete parts before we join them.
• There are discrete groups in the class based on age.
• The book is divided into discrete chapters.
• Discrete data points can be plotted on a graph.

Trick to Remember the Difference

A simple trick to remember: Discreet has two “e”s side by side, like two careful eyes watching. Discrete has two “e”s apart, like separate parts.

Summary of Usage

Use discreet when you want to talk about being careful or private. Use discrete when you refer to things being separate or different.