Merriam-Webster's Word Central

March 20, 2010

discreet (adjective): \dih-SKREET\
What does it mean?: : having or showing good judgment especially in conduct or speech
How do you use it?: Kayla knew she could tell her best friend Anne anything, trusting Anne to maintain a discreet silence when she should.
Are you a word wiz?: "Discreet" sounds just like another word, but the two terms have very different meanings. The second word is spelled "discrete," and it means "distinct" or "separate." One of the following sentences has confused "discreet" and "discrete." Which sentence is NOT using the right word?

A. Kevin and Kyle were twins, but they had discreet personalities and interests.

B. The coach wasn't discreet when a reporter asked why Joe hadn't made the team.

C. Each lab partner had to complete a discrete step in the experiment.

D. Maxine used discrete sections to separate the subjects in her notebook.

Kevin and Kyle have "separate" or "distinct" interests, so the writer should have used "discrete" instead of "discreet." You will want to be careful in using these two confusing words. To help you decide which one you need, remember that in the word that means "separate," the E's are separated: "discrete." When in doubt, check the dictionary before using either one!

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