Discreet vs. Discrete

"Discreet" and "discrete" are two words that are easy to confuse. They sound the same, but they have very different meanings. This guide will break down the difference and help you use them correctly.

The Basic Rule: Careful vs. Separate

Here's the one thing you need to remember:

• Discreet means careful or subtle.
• Discrete means separate or distinct.

Discreet: To Be Careful or Subtle

Discreet is an adjective that describes someone or something that is careful, cautious, or not attracting attention.

Examples of "Discreet"

• She was discreet about the surprise party, so he had no idea.
• The celebrity made a discreet entrance through the back door to avoid the paparazzi.
• We need to be discreet in our investigation.
• He gave a discreet cough to get her attention.

A Simple Memory Trick

Think of it this way: In "discreet," the two "e"s are hiding together, being careful not to be noticed.

Discrete: To Be Separate or Distinct

Discrete is an adjective that describes something that is individually separate and distinct.

Examples of "Discrete"

• The project was broken down into several discrete tasks.
• The course is divided into ten discrete units.
• There are several discrete stages in the process.
• The painting is made up of thousands of discrete dots of color.

A Simple Memory Trick

Think of it this way: In "discrete," the "t" separates the two "e"s, making them separate and distinct.

A Quick Test

1. Are you talking about being careful or subtle? → Use discreet.
2. Are you talking about something being separate or distinct? → Use discrete.

Test Yourself

Choose the right word:

1. The company is made up of several (discreet/discrete) divisions.
2. He was very (discreet/discrete) about his past.
3. We need to conduct a (discreet/discrete) inquiry.
4. The process has three (discreet/discrete) steps.
5. She made a few (discreet/discrete) inquiries about the job.
6. The survey data was broken down into (discreet/discrete) categories.
7. I need you to be (discreet/discrete) about this information.
8. The two issues are completely (discreet/discrete).
9. He gave a (discreet/discrete) signal to his partner.
10. The album is a collection of (discreet/discrete) songs.

Answer Key: 1. discrete, 2. discreet, 3. discreet, 4. discrete, 5. discreet, 6. discrete, 7. discreet, 8. discrete, 9. discreet, 10. discrete

Remember: Discreet is for being careful. Discrete is for things that are separate. Master this simple trick, and you'll never mix them up again!