adj
discrete
dih-SKREET
adj
1
Separate and distinct from other things, rather than continuous or connected.
"The project was broken down into several discrete stages."
"Each department operates as a discrete unit within the company."
How to Use Discrete
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishClearly separate or distinct, not blended with anything else.
Common mistake
Frequently confused with "discreet" (tactful, careful about privacy) — they sound identical but mean very different things.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
discrete units
discrete steps
discrete values
Word Forms
more discrete comparative, most discrete superlative
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The project was broken down into several _____ stages.
Etymology
From Latin discretus, "separated," the same root as "discreet" — the two words split apart in spelling and meaning over time.