discreet
adjectivecareful and quiet, so as not to reveal private things
Discreet: the two es sit together, like a secret kept.
Discreet vs discrete
They sound identical. Spelling is your only clue, and the two e's help.
2 wordsaudio · quiz
Quick answer
Discreet means careful not to attract attention or share secrets. Discrete means separate and distinct.
discrete
adjectiveseparate and distinct from other things
Discrete: the two es are separate.
The difference at a glance
| Word | Type | Means | Example | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| discreet | adjective | careful and quiet, so as not to reveal private things | She made a discreet inquiry about his health. | |
| discrete | adjective | separate and distinct from other things | The course has three discrete parts. |
See each one in a sentence
adjective
discreet
Examples
She made a discreet inquiry about his health.
Please be discreet about the news.
Common mistake
Not: Be discrete: don't tell anyone.
Say: Be discreet: don't tell anyone.
Careful and quiet is discreet.
adjective
discrete
Examples
The course has three discrete parts.
Data is stored in discrete units.
Common mistake
Not: The report has four discreet sections.
Say: The report has four discrete sections.
Separate parts are discrete.
Pick the right word
Fill the gap
Read the sentence, then choose the word that fits.
Now use them yourself
Write or say two sentences, one with each word, in a real conversation.