This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
English
Vocabulary
discriminate

B2 adjective #3,500 most common 14 min read

discriminate

Top 3,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips discriminate in 30 Seconds

Explanation discriminate in your Level:

At the A1 level, the word 'discriminate' is very difficult and is not usually taught. It is much better to use simple words like 'choose,' 'pick,' or 'good.' If you want to say someone is 'discriminate,' you can say they 'pick very carefully.' For example, instead of 'He is a discriminate eater,' you would say 'He only eats good food.' At this stage, your focus should be on basic actions and descriptions. 'Discriminate' is a very formal word that you will probably only see much later in your English journey. However, you can think of it like this: when you go to the market and you only pick the red apples, not the green ones, you are being very careful. That careful picking is what 'discriminate' means. It is the opposite of just taking any apple without looking. In A1 English, we use 'careful' to describe this. 'Be careful when you choose your toys.' This is the same idea as being 'discriminate.' Even though you won't use the word 'discriminate' yet, you already know the feeling of making a special choice. That is the first step to understanding this big word. Just remember: 'discriminate' = 'careful choosing.'

For A2 learners, 'discriminate' is still an advanced word, but you might start to see it in books or hear it in more formal situations. At this level, you can understand it as being 'selective' or 'choosy.' It means you have a reason for what you pick. For example, if you have ten pens but you only use the blue one because it writes the best, you are being discriminate. You are seeing the difference between the pens. In A2, you might use the word 'special' or 'particular.' 'She is very particular about her coffee.' This is very close to saying 'She is discriminate about her coffee.' The main thing to know is that 'discriminate' is a positive word when it is an adjective. It means you have good taste. You don't just like everything; you like the best things. You can try to remember it by thinking about your favorite hobby. If you collect stamps, you don't want every stamp; you only want the rare ones. That makes you a 'discriminate collector.' It is a step up from just being 'picky,' which can sometimes be a little bit negative. 'Discriminate' sounds more like you are smart and know what you are doing.

At the B1 level, you are becoming more comfortable with nuanced vocabulary. 'Discriminate' is a great word to add to your writing to make it sound more professional and precise. As an adjective, it describes someone who can recognize small, subtle differences. This is a very useful skill in many parts of life. For instance, in your studies, being a 'discriminate researcher' means you don't just use the first website you find on Google. Instead, you look for high-quality sources, like books or official reports. You are discriminating between 'good' information and 'bad' information. This level of English is all about moving away from simple adjectives like 'good' or 'nice' and using more specific ones. 'Discriminate' shows that there is a process of thinking involved. It’s not just a feeling; it’s a judgment. You might use it when talking about art, food, or even people's behavior. If someone gives 'discriminate' advice, it means their advice is carefully thought out and fits the specific situation perfectly. It isn't just general advice that they give to everyone. Using this word correctly at B1 will show that you understand how to describe complex human actions and tastes.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'discriminate' as an adjective with confidence, especially in formal essays or reports. This is where the distinction between the adjective and the verb becomes very important. You should understand that while the verb 'to discriminate' is often about unfairness, the adjective 'discriminate' is about quality and precision. At this level, you are expected to handle 'register'—the level of formality in your language. 'Discriminate' is a high-register word. Using it shows that you have a sophisticated command of English. You can use it to describe 'discriminate taste,' 'discriminate judgment,' or 'discriminate selection.' For example, in a business context, a company might make a 'discriminate choice' of which markets to enter. This implies a strategic, well-researched decision. It is much stronger than saying 'a careful choice.' It suggests that the company analyzed many factors and picked the absolute best options. You should also be aware of the opposite, 'indiscriminate,' which is very common in news reports (e.g., 'indiscriminate violence'). By knowing both the positive adjective and its negative opposite, you gain a powerful tool for describing how people and organizations make decisions. This level of vocabulary is what separates a good speaker from a great one.

By the C1 level, you should be exploring the deeper stylistic nuances of 'discriminate.' You understand that it is a word of precision, often used to describe a refined aesthetic or a rigorous intellectual method. At this stage, you can use it to create subtle shades of meaning in your writing. For instance, you might distinguish between 'a discriminate reader' and 'a critical reader.' While a critical reader looks for flaws, a discriminate reader looks for quality and nuance. They are able to appreciate the fine details of a writer's style. You should also be comfortable using the word in technical or philosophical discussions. In a C1 essay, you might write about the 'discriminate application of ethical principles,' suggesting that ethics cannot be applied in a 'one-size-fits-all' manner but must be carefully fitted to each unique situation. You are also likely to encounter this word in high-level literature or academic journals. When you see it, you should immediately recognize it as a signal of high quality or careful thought. You might also notice how it relates to other words in the same family, like 'discernment' or 'discretion.' At C1, your goal is to use 'discriminate' not just as a synonym for 'selective,' but as a way to highlight the intelligence and care behind a particular action or preference.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the word 'discriminate' and its various connotations. You can use it with absolute precision, even in the most formal or specialized contexts. You might use it to describe the 'discriminate eye' of a master painter or the 'discriminate ear' of a world-class conductor. In these cases, the word transcends simple 'choice' and becomes a description of a highly developed sensory or intellectual faculty. You are also aware of the historical weight of the word and how its usage has shifted over time. You might use it in a way that is slightly archaic to achieve a specific stylistic effect, or you might use it in a modern, technical sense in a field like statistics or data science. At this level, you can also play with the word's relationship to its verb form, perhaps using it in a sentence that explores the paradox of how being 'discriminate' (selective/refined) is necessary for excellence, while 'discriminating' (prejudiced) is a moral failing. Your use of the word is not just about accuracy; it's about elegance and the ability to convey complex ideas with a single, perfectly chosen term. You understand that 'discriminate' is more than just a word; it is a concept that celebrates the human ability to perceive and value the finest details of existence.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

discriminate in 30 Seconds

An adjective describing the ability to make fine, high-quality distinctions.
Indicates refined taste, precision, and a non-random, selective approach.
Used in formal contexts like art criticism, academia, and luxury marketing.
Often confused with the verb form, but carries a positive or neutral meaning.

The word discriminate, when functioning as an adjective, represents a high level of cognitive and aesthetic refinement. Unlike its more common verb counterpart, which often carries a heavy social or legal burden regarding unfair treatment, the adjective form is a mark of precision and excellence. It describes a state of being characterized by the ability to make very fine distinctions between things that might appear identical to an untrained eye. When we describe someone as a discriminate observer, we are paying them a compliment on their attention to detail and their refusal to accept the mediocre or the generic. This word is most frequently employed in academic, artistic, and philosophical contexts where the quality of selection is paramount. It suggests a process that is the polar opposite of 'random' or 'haphazard.' To be discriminate is to have a filter that only allows the most relevant, high-quality, or accurate information or items to pass through. It is the hallmark of a connoisseur, a rigorous scientist, or a thoughtful critic. In a world saturated with information and choices, being discriminate is a survival skill for the intellect, allowing one to navigate through noise to find the signal.

Aesthetic Precision: The quality of making careful choices based on refined taste and an understanding of subtle nuances in art, music, or design.

The museum curator’s discriminate eye ensured that only the most significant artifacts were included in the exhibition.

In a practical sense, using this word as an adjective signals a level of formality. You might hear a professor discuss the 'discriminate use of evidence' in a thesis. Here, it implies that the student did not simply throw every available fact at the page, but instead selected only those pieces of data that were truly relevant and robust. This selective process is what makes the work 'discriminate.' It is also used in the context of sensory perception. A wine taster with a discriminate palate can identify the specific soil type of a vineyard just by the hint of minerality in the glass. This is not just about liking or disliking; it is about the structural ability to categorize and distinguish. The word carries an inherent sense of order and logic. It tells the listener that the person or method being described is governed by rules of quality and relevance rather than by impulse or chance.

Intellectual Rigor: The application of strict standards to distinguish between valid and invalid arguments or data points.

A discriminate reader does not believe every headline but looks for the source's credibility.

Historically, the adjective was more common than it is today, where 'discriminating' (the present participle used as an adjective) has taken over much of its territory. However, 'discriminate' remains the more precise choice when describing a method or a result rather than just a person's character trait. For instance, 'discriminate sampling' in statistics refers to a specific, non-random methodology. It implies that the selection was made with a particular purpose in mind. In literature, a 'discriminate choice of words' suggests that the author weighed every synonym and chose the one with the exact connotation required for the scene. It is a word of high praise for anyone who values quality over quantity and clarity over confusion.

Methodological Accuracy: Refers to processes that are deliberate and based on specific criteria rather than being left to chance.

The researcher employed a discriminate approach to selecting participants for the clinical trial.

Her discriminate ear allowed her to tune the piano with incredible precision.

The chef’s discriminate selection of spices transformed the simple dish into a masterpiece.

Using the adjective discriminate requires an understanding of its placement within a sentence, typically appearing before a noun to modify it. It serves to elevate the description of a choice, a person, or a process. Because it is a formal word, it is most at home in professional writing, academic papers, and sophisticated critiques. When you use it, you are emphasizing that the subject is not acting blindly. For example, 'discriminate judgment' sounds much more authoritative than 'good judgment.' It implies that the judgment was reached through a rigorous process of weighing options and identifying differences that others might miss. It is often paired with nouns like taste, choice, selection, use, and judgment.

Modifying Taste and Preference: Used to describe someone who only enjoys things of high quality and can explain why.

Only a discriminate collector would notice the slight variation in the binding of the first edition.

In scientific and technical writing, 'discriminate' describes processes that are targeted. If a computer algorithm is 'discriminate,' it means it has been programmed to ignore 'noise' and focus only on relevant data points. This is a crucial distinction in fields like data science or engineering. You might write: 'The sensor provides a discriminate analysis of atmospheric gases.' This tells the reader that the sensor doesn't just detect 'gas' in general, but can tell the difference between nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide with high specificity. It is the opposite of 'indiscriminate,' which would imply the sensor just beeps whenever anything is in the air. This contrast is a powerful tool in writing; by using 'discriminate,' you are proactively defending the quality of the process you are describing.

Describing Professional Processes: Applying the word to workflows that require high levels of expertise and specific criteria.

The editor's discriminate cutting of the manuscript turned a rambling story into a tight, compelling thriller.

When discussing social interactions or etiquette, 'discriminate' can describe a person's social circle or their choice of conversation topics. A 'discriminate host' is someone who carefully selects guests who will complement one another, ensuring a harmonious and intellectually stimulating evening. This usage highlights the social intelligence involved in the word. It isn't about being 'snobbish' (though it can lean that way if overused), but about being 'intentional.' In your writing, if you want to show that a character is sophisticated and thoughtful, describe their actions as discriminate. Instead of saying 'He chose his friends wisely,' try 'He was discriminate in his choice of companions.' This small change in vocabulary shifts the tone from a simple observation to a character study of a refined individual.

Social and Interpersonal Use: Using the word to describe intentionality and care in human relationships and settings.

Her discriminate praise meant more to the students than the constant, empty flattery of others.

The architect made a discriminate use of natural light to enhance the building's minimalist features.

A discriminate investment strategy focuses on long-term value rather than market hype.

In everyday casual conversation, you might not hear the adjective discriminate very often. Most people opt for 'picky,' 'selective,' or 'choosy.' However, in specific professional and intellectual circles, it is a staple. If you are watching a documentary on fine art or listening to a podcast about high-end culinary techniques, the word will frequently appear. Critics use it to describe the mastery of an artist who knows exactly what to leave out of a painting. In these contexts, 'discriminate' is a badge of honor. It suggests that the person has put in the '10,000 hours' required to see the world with a high-resolution lens. When a wine critic speaks of a 'discriminate palate,' they are acknowledging a professional level of sensory expertise that the average person simply hasn't developed.

High-End Criticism: Found in reviews of luxury goods, art, and literature where fine distinctions are the main focus.

The film critic was known for his discriminate taste, rarely giving a five-star rating to blockbuster movies.

Another place you will encounter this word is in the world of academia and research. Professors often use it when discussing methodology. In a lecture on historical research, a professor might emphasize the 'discriminate use of primary sources.' This means the historian shouldn't just use every old letter they find, but must evaluate which letters are credible, which are biased, and which are truly relevant to the argument. In this setting, the word is synonymous with 'rigorous' and 'scholarly.' It acts as a guard against intellectual laziness. Similarly, in legal settings, a judge might refer to the 'discriminate application of the law,' meaning the law must be applied carefully to the specific facts of a case, not broadly or thoughtlessly. It is a word that demands attention and respect for the process of thinking.

Academic and Legal Contexts: Used to describe the careful, reasoned application of rules or the selection of evidence.

The judge called for a more discriminate review of the evidence before the jury reached a verdict.

You might also find 'discriminate' in the marketing materials of luxury brands. A high-end watchmaker might advertise to the 'discriminate gentleman.' This is a psychological tactic to make the consumer feel like they are part of an elite group of people who can appreciate the fine craftsmanship of the watch. It appeals to the customer's desire to be seen as someone with superior taste. In this context, the word is used to create an aura of exclusivity. It suggests that the product isn't for everyone—it’s only for those who are 'discriminate' enough to understand its value. While this is a commercial use, it still relies on the core definition of the word: the ability to recognize and value subtle, high-quality differences.

Luxury Marketing: Using the word to flatter the consumer's sense of taste and status.

The boutique hotel caters to a discriminate clientele who value privacy and bespoke service.

His discriminate reading of the contract saved the company from a costly legal error.

A discriminate gardener knows which weeds to pull and which wildflowers to leave for the bees.

The most frequent mistake people make with the word discriminate is confusing its parts of speech, specifically between the verb and the adjective. Because the verb form is so culturally dominant—referring to social injustice or prejudice—many learners (and even native speakers) forget that the word can be a neutral or positive adjective. If you say 'He is very discriminate,' some people might wrongly think you are saying he is a bigot. To avoid this, it is essential to provide enough context. Pairing the adjective with nouns like 'taste,' 'eye,' or 'judgment' clarifies that you are talking about discernment, not prejudice. Without these 'anchor' nouns, the sentence can be ambiguous and lead to significant misunderstandings.

Confusing Adjective and Verb: The failure to distinguish between 'to discriminate' (verb: usually negative) and 'discriminate' (adjective: usually positive/neutral).

Incorrect: He was discriminate against his employees. (Should be: He discriminated against...)

Another common error is the confusion between 'discriminate' and 'discriminatory.' This is a critical distinction. 'Discriminatory' is almost always negative; it describes actions or policies that are unfair or based on prejudice (e.g., 'discriminatory hiring practices'). 'Discriminate,' as an adjective, is about the quality of making distinctions (e.g., 'a discriminate choice of colors'). If you use 'discriminatory' when you mean 'discriminate,' you are accidentally accusing someone of being unfair when you meant to praise their good taste. This can be a very embarrassing mistake in professional or social settings. Always remember: 'discriminatory' = unfair; 'discriminate' = discerning/selective.

Discriminate vs. Discriminatory: Confusing the word for 'refined selection' with the word for 'prejudiced treatment.'

Correct: Her discriminate shopping habits mean she only buys high-quality clothes.

Finally, there is the confusion between the adjective 'discriminate' and the adjective 'discriminating.' While they are very similar and often interchangeable, 'discriminating' is much more common when describing a person's character (e.g., 'a discriminating customer'). 'Discriminate' is often preferred when describing the *manner* in which something is done or the *nature* of a thing itself (e.g., 'a discriminate distribution of funds'). Using 'discriminate' to describe a person can sometimes feel a bit 'clunky' or overly formal to modern ears. If you want to sound more natural in a conversation about someone's taste, 'discriminating' might be the better choice, but if you are writing a formal report, 'discriminate' adds a layer of professional polish.

Interchanging with 'Discriminating': Using the less common 'discriminate' when the more natural 'discriminating' might fit better for people.

The scientist was discriminate in her data collection, ensuring no outliers skewed the results.

It is a mistake to think that discriminate thinking is the same as being overly critical.

Avoid the discriminate use of jargon if you want your writing to be accessible to everyone.

If you find that discriminate is a bit too formal or potentially confusing for your audience, there are several excellent alternatives. The most direct synonym is discerning. This word carries the same positive connotation of having good taste and the ability to judge well. It is very common in literary and artistic circles. Another strong alternative is selective. While 'selective' is more neutral, it conveys the idea of choosing carefully from a group. If you want to emphasize the intellectual aspect of making distinctions, astute or perceptive are great choices. These words suggest a high level of mental sharpness and the ability to see things that are not immediately obvious.

Discerning vs. Discriminate: 'Discerning' often describes the person's character, while 'discriminate' often describes the quality of the choice itself.

She has a very discerning palate when it comes to dark chocolate.

In a more technical or scientific context, you might use precise or specific. These words lack the 'taste' element of 'discriminate' but capture the 'accuracy' element perfectly. For example, 'precise measurements' and 'discriminate measurements' both imply a high degree of care, but 'precise' focuses on the numerical exactness, while 'discriminate' focuses on the fact that the measurements were chosen for a particular reason. Another interesting alternative is judicious. This word adds a layer of 'wisdom' to the idea of selection. A 'judicious use of resources' implies that the choices were not only careful but also wise and practical. Using 'judicious' instead of 'discriminate' can make your writing sound more balanced and thoughtful.

Judicious vs. Discriminate: 'Judicious' implies wisdom and practicality; 'discriminate' implies refined taste and precision.

A judicious editor knows when to leave a difficult passage alone.

For the opposite meaning, indiscriminate is the perfect word. It describes something done without any care, thought, or selection. 'Indiscriminate spending' or 'indiscriminate use of pesticides' are common phrases that highlight a lack of control or wisdom. Other antonyms include random, haphazard, and unselective. These words all point to a lack of the very qualities that make 'discriminate' so valuable: precision, care, and refined judgment. Understanding these alternatives and opposites helps you place 'discriminate' in its proper semantic space, allowing you to use it with confidence and accuracy in any situation.

Indiscriminate (The Antonym): The total lack of selection or care; doing things in a random or messy way.

The indiscriminate destruction of the forest led to a loss of biodiversity.

A selective memory can be both a blessing and a curse in long-term relationships.

The astute businessman made a discriminate choice to invest in renewable energy early on.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The root of 'discriminate' is the same as the root for 'secret' and 'crisis'. All these words involve the idea of 'separating' or 'judging' things to find the truth.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dɪˈskrɪmɪnət/

US /dɪˈskrɪmɪnət/

Second syllable: di-SCRIM-i-nate.

Rhymes With

passionate fortunate obstinate delicate accurate adequate intricate ultimate

Common Errors

Pronouncing the ending like 'ate' (as in 'eat') instead of 'it'. This makes it sound like the verb.
Putting the stress on the first or third syllable.
Mumbling the middle 'i' sounds.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'discriminating'.
Failing to aspirate the 't' at the end clearly in formal speech.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Requires understanding of formal context and part-of-speech distinction.

Writing 5/5

Difficult to use correctly without sounding overly formal or confusing it with the verb.

Speaking 5/5

Rarely used in speech, making it hard to find the right natural tone.

Listening 4/5

Must listen for the specific 'it' sound at the end to distinguish from the verb.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

choose careful different selective taste

Learn Next

discernment judicious aesthetic nuance connoisseur

Advanced

hermeneutics taxonomy epistemology axiology stratification

Grammar to Know

Adjective vs. Verb Suffixes

The suffix '-ate' can be pronounced /eɪt/ for verbs and /ət/ for adjectives.

Adjective Placement

Adjectives like 'discriminate' usually come before the noun they modify.

Prepositional Collocation

We use 'discriminate in' or 'discriminate about' to link to a specific area.

Comparative Adjectives

Use 'more discriminate' or 'most discriminate' rather than adding '-er' or '-est'.

Negative Prefixes

The prefix 'in-' is used to create the antonym 'indiscriminate'.

Examples by Level

He is a very discriminate eater.

He picks his food very carefully.

Adjective modifying the noun 'eater'.

She makes a discriminate choice of toys.

She chooses only the toys she really likes.

Adjective before the noun 'choice'.

Be discriminate with your colors.

Pick your colors carefully.

Imperative sentence using the adjective.

He has a discriminate way of playing.

He plays in a very careful way.

Adjective modifying 'way'.

She is discriminate about her friends.

She chooses her friends carefully.

Adjective followed by the preposition 'about'.

A discriminate pick is always better.

Choosing carefully is better.

Adjective used as a subject complement.

The dog is discriminate with his treats.

The dog only eats the treats he likes.

Adjective modifying the dog's behavior.

Use a discriminate eye for the art.

Look at the art very carefully.

Adjective modifying 'eye'.

A discriminate shopper saves money.

A shopper who chooses carefully doesn't waste money.

Adjective modifying 'shopper'.

His discriminate taste in music is famous.

He only likes very good music.

Possessive adjective + adjective + noun.

She is very discriminate about her clothes.

She is very careful about what she wears.

Adjective describing a person's habit.

The teacher made a discriminate selection of books.

The teacher picked the best books for the class.

Adjective modifying 'selection'.

Being discriminate helps you find the best path.

Choosing carefully helps you find the right way.

Gerund phrase as the subject.

He gave a discriminate answer to the question.

His answer was careful and exact.

Adjective modifying 'answer'.

They are discriminate about where they go on vacation.

They only go to very nice places.

Adjective describing a group's preference.

A discriminate use of time is important.

Using your time carefully is important.

Adjective modifying 'use'.

A discriminate reader notices the author's tone.

A careful reader sees the small details in the writing.

Adjective describing a skill.

The chef's discriminate use of salt improved the soup.

The chef added just the right amount of salt.

Adjective modifying 'use'.

He was discriminate in his choice of words during the speech.

He chose his words very carefully to be clear.

Adjective + prepositional phrase.

She has a discriminate eye for interior design.

She can tell which furniture looks best together.

Idiomatic use of 'eye' with the adjective.

The company made a discriminate investment in new tech.

The company carefully chose which technology to buy.

Adjective modifying 'investment'.

Is he always this discriminate about his tea?

Does he always care this much about the quality of his tea?

Interrogative sentence.

A discriminate approach to study leads to better grades.

Studying in a careful and organized way is better.

Adjective modifying 'approach'.

The museum needs a more discriminate curator.

The museum needs someone who picks art more carefully.

Comparative structure with the adjective.

The judge praised the lawyer's discriminate use of evidence.

The lawyer only used the most relevant facts.

Formal academic/legal usage.

A discriminate buyer will always check the warranty.

A careful buyer looks at the fine print.

Adjective modifying 'buyer'.

Her discriminate taste in literature is well-known.

She is famous for only liking high-quality books.

Noun phrase as the subject.

The scientist employed a discriminate method for the experiment.

The method was precise and not random.

Adjective modifying 'method'.

He is discriminate in his social circle, preferring a few close friends.

He chooses his friends very carefully.

Adjective phrase modifying the subject.

The film's success was due to the director's discriminate casting.

The director picked the perfect actors for the roles.

Adjective modifying 'casting'.

One must be discriminate when choosing a life partner.

You must be very careful and selective about who you marry.

Modal verb + 'be' + adjective.

The discriminate application of the law is essential for justice.

Applying the law carefully to each case is necessary.

Adjective modifying 'application'.

The critic's discriminate appraisal of the symphony was highly respected.

The critic's careful evaluation was valued by others.

Formal noun phrase.

A discriminate mind can easily spot logical fallacies.

A sharp and selective mind sees mistakes in arguments.

Adjective modifying 'mind'.

The architect's discriminate choice of materials gave the building its unique character.

The careful selection of wood and stone made the building special.

Adjective modifying 'choice'.

We need to be more discriminate in our consumption of news.

We must be careful about which news sources we trust.

Adjective in a 'be' + adjective structure.

The discriminate distribution of resources ensured the project's success.

Giving the money only where it was needed helped the project.

Adjective modifying 'distribution'.

Her discriminate ear for accents made her a great linguist.

She could hear the tiny differences in how people speak.

Metaphorical use of 'ear'.

The discriminate use of metaphor in the poem added layers of meaning.

The careful way the poet used metaphors made the poem deeper.

Literary analysis context.

He maintained a discriminate distance from political controversies.

He was careful to stay away from political arguments.

Adjective modifying 'distance'.

The scholar’s discriminate reading of the ancient manuscript revealed previously unnoticed nuances.

The very careful reading showed small details that others missed.

High-level academic usage.

A truly discriminate palate can distinguish between various regions of the same vineyard.

A very refined taste can tell exactly where the grapes grew.

Adjective modifying 'palate'.

The discriminate application of force is a central tenet of modern peacekeeping.

Using force only when and where it is absolutely necessary.

Political/military context.

Her discriminate judgment in matters of ethics made her an ideal ombudsman.

Her careful and refined sense of right and wrong was perfect for the job.

Professional/specialized usage.

The artist’s discriminate use of negative space creates a sense of profound tranquility.

The careful way the artist left parts of the canvas empty made it peaceful.

Art criticism context.

One must cultivate a discriminate awareness of one’s own biases.

You need to develop a careful understanding of your own prejudices.

Philosophical/psychological context.

The discriminate selection of data points was crucial for the model's predictive accuracy.

Choosing only the right data made the computer's guess correct.

Technical/scientific context.

His discriminate silence was often more powerful than any spoken word.

The way he chose when to be quiet was very effective.

Abstract usage.

Synonyms

discerning selective fastidious critical judicious perceptive

Antonyms

indiscriminate unselective haphazard

Common Collocations

discriminate taste

discriminate eye

discriminate choice

discriminate use of

discriminate judgment

discriminate selection

discriminate observer

discriminate ear

discriminate reader

discriminate application

Common Phrases

be discriminate in

— To be careful when choosing something.

You should be discriminate in your choice of business partners.

with a discriminate eye

— Looking at something with careful judgment.

He looked at the antique with a discriminate eye.

a discriminate few

— A small, carefully chosen group of people or things.

Only a discriminate few were invited to the private showing.

discriminate about

— Being picky or selective regarding a specific topic.

She is very discriminate about the quality of her coffee.

highly discriminate

— Extremely selective and refined.

The boutique caters to a highly discriminate clientele.

less than discriminate

— Not being careful enough in making choices.

His less than discriminate spending led to financial trouble.

discriminate to a fault

— Being so selective that it becomes a problem.

He is discriminate to a fault, often taking hours to pick a meal.

cultivate a discriminate

— To work on improving one's ability to choose well.

Students are encouraged to cultivate a discriminate mind.

discriminate and discerning

— Two words used together to emphasize high taste.

She is a discriminate and discerning collector of modern art.

discriminate in taste

— Having very specific and high-quality preferences.

He was always discriminate in taste, even as a young child.

Often Confused With

discriminate vs discriminatory

This is an adjective meaning 'prejudiced' or 'unfair.' Never use it to mean 'discerning.'

discriminate vs discriminating

This is a more common synonym for the adjective 'discriminate' when describing people.

discriminate vs discern

This is a verb meaning 'to see or recognize.' It is related but has a different function.

Idioms & Expressions

"separate the wheat from the chaff"

— To distinguish between what is valuable and what is worthless.

A discriminate editor helps separate the wheat from the chaff in a manuscript.

Literary/Idiomatic

"have an eye for"

— To have a natural ability to see or find something good.

She has a discriminate eye for talent in the music industry.

Informal

"pick and choose"

— To select only the best from a variety of options.

The company can pick and choose from the best candidates because it's so prestigious.

Neutral

"draw a line"

— To set a limit or make a distinction between two things.

A discriminate leader knows where to draw a line between work and personal life.

Neutral

"fine-tooth comb"

— To examine something very carefully and in great detail.

The auditor went through the accounts with a discriminate, fine-tooth comb.

Informal

"spot on"

— Exactly right; perfectly accurate.

Her discriminate assessment of the situation was spot on.

Informal

"split hairs"

— To make small and unnecessary distinctions.

Don't split hairs; being too discriminate in this case is a waste of time.

Informal

"cream of the crop"

— The very best of a group.

A discriminate recruiter only looks for the cream of the crop.

Informal

"cut to the chase"

— To get to the most important part of something.

A discriminate thinker cuts to the chase and ignores irrelevant details.

Informal

"read between the lines"

— To find a meaning that is not stated directly.

A discriminate reader can read between the lines of a political speech.

Neutral

Easily Confused

discriminate vs discriminatory

They share the same root and are both adjectives.

Discriminatory is negative (prejudice); Discriminate is neutral/positive (selection).

The law was discriminatory. vs. He has discriminate taste.

discriminate vs indiscriminate

It is the direct opposite.

Indiscriminate means random and without care; Discriminate means careful and selective.

Indiscriminate bombing. vs. Discriminate choice of targets.

discriminate vs discrete

Sounds slightly similar.

Discrete means 'separate or distinct' (mathematical); Discriminate means 'selective'.

Discrete units of data. vs. Discriminate selection of data.

discriminate vs discreet

Homophone of discrete, sounds similar to discriminate.

Discreet means 'careful not to attract attention' (secretive).

A discreet conversation. vs. A discriminate choice.

discriminate vs distinct

Similar meaning of being 'different'.

Distinct means 'clearly different'; Discriminate describes the *ability* to see those differences.

Two distinct colors. vs. A discriminate eye for color.

Sentence Patterns

He is a [adj] [noun].

He is a discriminate eater.

She is [adj] about [noun].

She is discriminate about her shoes.

The [noun]'s [adj] use of [noun] is [adj].

The chef's discriminate use of spices is impressive.

One should be [adj] in [gerund].

One should be discriminate in choosing a career.

A [adj] [noun] permits [noun].

A discriminate reading permits deeper understanding.

It requires a [adj] [noun] to [verb].

It requires a discriminate eye to spot the forgery.

The [adj] [noun] of [noun] underscores [noun].

The discriminate application of theory underscores the study's validity.

[Gerund] requires a [adj] [noun].

Mastering the violin requires a discriminate ear.

Word Family

Nouns

discrimination

discriminator

discernment

Verbs

discriminate

discern

differentiate

Adjectives

discriminate

discriminating

discriminatory

discerning

distinction

selection

precision

refinement

choice

How to Use It

frequency

Low in daily speech; Moderate in academic/specialized writing.

Common Mistakes

He was discriminate against the new policy. → He discriminated against the new policy.
You used the adjective form where the verb form was needed. The adjective doesn't take an object with 'against.'
She has very discriminatory taste in art. → She has very discriminate taste in art.
'Discriminatory' means prejudiced/unfair. 'Discriminate' means discerning/refined. This is a very common and potentially offensive mistake.
The random, discriminate choice of colors... → The careful, discriminate choice of colors...
'Random' and 'discriminate' are opposites. You cannot have a choice that is both random and discriminate.
He is a very discriminate. → He is very discriminate. / He is a discriminate person.
As an adjective, it needs to either follow a linking verb or modify a noun. You cannot use it as a noun itself.
I like your discriminate-ly chosen furniture. → I like your discriminately chosen furniture.
When modifying a verb or another adjective ('chosen'), you must use the adverb form '-ly'.

Tips

Pair with a Noun

To avoid being misunderstood, always use 'discriminate' as a modifier before a noun like 'taste,' 'eye,' or 'judgment.' This anchors the meaning in 'discernment' rather than 'prejudice.'

The 'It' Ending

Think of the word 'climate.' The ending sounds the same as the adjective 'discriminate.' Practice saying 'discrim-it' to get the adjective pronunciation right every time.

The Antonym Trick

If you are unsure if 'discriminate' fits, try the opposite. If 'indiscriminate' (meaning random) fits the situation, then 'discriminate' is the correct word for the careful version.

Academic Polish

In essays, use 'discriminate' when discussing how you chose your evidence. Phrases like 'a discriminate selection of sources' show the professor that you were rigorous in your work.

Contextual Clues

When listening, if you hear 'discriminate' followed by 'in' or 'of,' it's almost always the adjective. If you hear it followed by 'against,' it's the verb. This is a quick way to know the meaning.

Complimenting Taste

Use 'discriminate' to compliment someone's home or style. 'You have such a discriminate eye for antiques' sounds much more sophisticated than just saying 'You have nice things.'

Discriminate vs. Selective

While 'selective' just means you choose, 'discriminate' implies you choose *well* because you are smart and have high standards. Use 'discriminate' for that extra layer of meaning.

The 'Crime' Root

The middle of the word 'discrim' sounds like 'crime.' Think of a detective 'discriminating' between a real clue and a fake one to solve a crime. This links the word to careful searching.

Business Strategy

In business, use 'discriminate' to describe a targeted marketing plan. A 'discriminate advertising campaign' is one that only shows ads to the people most likely to buy the product.

No '-ly' needed sometimes

While 'discriminately' is an adverb, the adjective 'discriminate' can sometimes feel like it carries the weight of the action itself. Focus on the noun it modifies.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'Disc' that is 'Rimmed' with 'Great' (nate) taste. A 'disc-rim-i-nate' person only picks the greatest discs for their collection.

Visual Association

Imagine a person using a magnifying glass to look at two very similar diamonds, picking only the one that is perfect. This shows the 'discriminate' eye.

Word Web

Selection Taste Precision Quality Refinement Judgment Distinction Care

Challenge

Write a short review of your favorite movie using the word 'discriminate' at least three times to describe the director's choices.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'discriminatus', which is the past participle of 'discriminare'. This comes from 'discrimen', meaning 'distinction' or 'division'. The root 'dis-' means 'apart' and 'cernere' means 'to separate' or 'to sift'.

Original meaning: To set apart as different; to distinguish or divide.

Italic -> Latin -> Middle English

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it in a way that sounds elitist or snobbish in casual settings. Always ensure the context is about quality, not exclusion of people.

In the US and UK, the word is highly formal and used to signal intellectual or aesthetic authority.

Jane Austen characters often show 'discriminate' taste in their social circles. Wine magazines like 'Wine Spectator' frequently use the term for palates. Academic papers on 'Discriminate Analysis' in statistics.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Art & Design

discriminate eye for detail
discriminate choice of palette
discriminate use of space
discriminate aesthetic

Science & Data

discriminate data selection
discriminate analysis
discriminate sampling
discriminate variables

Food & Drink

discriminate palate
discriminate taster
discriminate selection of ingredients
discriminate about quality

Social/Professional

discriminate judgment
discriminate use of power
discriminate praise
discriminate in hiring

Reading/Writing

discriminate reader
discriminate choice of words
discriminate use of sources
discriminate editor

Conversation Starters

"How discriminate are you when it comes to choosing the movies you watch?"

"Do you think it’s important to be discriminate about the people you follow on social media?"

"In your profession, where is it most important to have a discriminate eye?"

"Would you describe yourself as a discriminate eater, or do you enjoy almost anything?"

"How can someone develop a more discriminate taste in art or music?"

Journal Prompts

Reflect on a time when being discriminate in a choice saved you from a major mistake.

Describe your 'discriminate palate.' What are the specific things you love and why are you so selective?

Write about the difference between being 'picky' and being 'discriminate.' Is one better than the other?

How does a discriminate use of your free time change the quality of your life?

Think of a person you admire for their discriminate judgment. What qualities do they possess?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

As an adjective, it is generally positive or neutral, implying precision and good taste. However, as a verb, it often has a very negative meaning related to prejudice. Context is key to understanding which one is being used.

Yes, you can say 'He is very discriminate,' but it is more common and sounds more natural to say 'He is a discriminate buyer' or 'He has discriminate taste.' Adding a noun makes the meaning clearer.

They are nearly identical as adjectives. 'Discriminating' is more common in modern English when describing a person's character (e.g., 'a discriminating gentleman'), while 'discriminate' is often used for methods or choices (e.g., 'a discriminate selection').

The adjective ends in a short 'it' sound (/ət/), like 'delicate.' The verb ends in a long 'ate' sound (/eɪt/), like 'celebrate.' This is the most important distinction in spoken English.

Yes, it is used in 'Discriminate Analysis,' which is a statistical technique used to classify observations into two or more groups. It implies a precise way of telling things apart based on data.

No, if you use 'against,' you are using the verb form. The adjective form does not take 'against.' You would say 'He is discriminate in his choices,' not 'He is discriminate against choices.'

In news and daily life, we often talk about things that are done without care (like 'indiscriminate violence'). The positive version, 'discriminate,' is more specialized and formal, so it appears less frequently in popular media.

Yes, in technical fields, an algorithm or sensor that can tell the difference between tiny details is often called 'discriminate.' It implies the machine has high sensitivity and precision.

This refers to a person (often a chef or wine taster) who can taste very subtle ingredients or flaws in food and drink. It is a sign of great expertise and experience.

Yes, it is considered B2 because it requires an understanding of nuance, formality, and the ability to distinguish between different parts of speech that look identical.