Descrete vs. Discreet: Mastering the Correct Spelling
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on March 7, 2024
"Descrete" is incorrect, while "discreet" is correct spelling. "Discreet" means careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, especially to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
Which is correct: Descrete or Discreet
How to spell Discreet?
Descrete is Incorrect
Discreet is Correct
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Key Differences
Think of "discreet" as being "discrete" in actions, separating it from indiscretion with careful behavior.
Use a mnemonic: "Discreet people keep secrets," focusing on the double "e" for secrets.
Associate "discreet" with "greet" silently, both containing "ee," implying a quiet and cautious welcome.
Remember "ee" in "discreet" stands for "extra careful."
Break it down phonetically: "dis-CREET" emphasizes the sound that matches its spelling with "ee."
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Correct usage of Discreet
Their relationship was kept descrete from the public eye.
Their relationship was kept discreet from the public eye.
Messages should be sent in a descrete manner to avoid any leaks.
Messages should be sent in a discreet manner to avoid any leaks.
He tried to be descrete when he left the meeting early.
He tried to be discreet when he left the meeting early.
She thought her actions were descrete, but everyone knew what she was doing.
She thought her actions were discreet, but everyone knew what she was doing.
The company promises descrete packaging for all shipments.
The company promises discreet packaging for all shipments.
Discreet Definitions
Careful in one's conduct or speech, especially with regard to respecting privacy.
He was discreet about his client's confidential information.
Unobtrusive, not attracting attention.
They exchanged discreet glances during the meeting.
Judicious in one's conduct or speech, particularly in sensitive matters.
The diplomat's discreet handling of the negotiations averted a crisis.
Showing prudence and circumspection in behavior.
Her discreet inquiries revealed the truth.
Modest or unassuming in appearance.
She wore a discreet dress to the formal event.
Possessed of, exercising, or showing prudence and self-restraint in speech and behavior; circumspect
The teacher was discreet in discussing the student's behavior. We followed him but kept a discreet distance.
Made, done, or situated so as to attract little notice
Made a discreet exit out the back door.
Lovers seeking a discreet place to meet.
Respectful of privacy or secrecy; exercising caution in order to avoid causing embarrassment; quiet; diplomatic.
With a discreet gesture, she reminded him to mind his manners.
John just doesn't understand that laughing at Mary all day is not very discreet.
Discreet Sentences
To keep the surprise party a secret, we had to be discreet about our plans.
In professional settings, it's important to communicate feedback in a discreet way.
The discreet charm of the neighborhood was not immediately obvious to outsiders.
The agent was known for handling matters in a very discreet manner.
The gift came in discreet packaging to keep its contents a surprise.
The detective asked questions in a discreet manner to avoid alarming the suspects.
The design was subtle and discreet, perfect for those who valued understatement.
She wore a discreet pin on her jacket that symbolized her commitment to the cause.
They shared a discreet glance that went unnoticed by everyone else in the room.
The company’s discreet approach to client confidentiality built its stellar reputation.
The waiter was very discreet when he delivered the special message.
They managed a discreet exit from the party without drawing any attention.
She appreciated his discreet advice on a sensitive matter.
For discreet inquiries, please contact our private hotline.
Their discreet meeting was held in a private room away from prying eyes.
The diplomat’s discreet negotiations averted a potential conflict.
Their discreet acts of kindness went largely unnoticed but were greatly appreciated.
Discreet surveillance was set up around the building for security.
The jewel was hidden in a discreet compartment within the box.
The artist’s signature on the painting was discreet and almost invisible.
A discreet inquiry can often uncover more information than direct questioning.
To keep their conversation private, they chose a discreet location for lunch.
Wearing discreet makeup is preferred at formal business events.
Discreet messaging apps are essential for secure communication.
The camera's design is discreet, making it ideal for candid photography.
FAQs
Why is it called discreet?
It's called "discreet" from the Latin "discretus," meaning separate or distinct, which evolved to mean prudent and circumspect.
What is the pronunciation of discreet?
Discreet is pronounced as /dɪˈskriːt/.
What is the verb form of discreet?
"Discreet" does not have a verb form; it is an adjective.
What is the root word of discreet?
The root word is "discretus" from Latin.
Which conjunction is used with discreet?
"And" can be used when listing qualities including being discreet.
Which vowel is used before discreet?
The vowel "e" is used before "discreet," as in the double "ee."
What is the plural form of discreet?
The plural form is "discreets," though rarely used since "discreet" typically describes a quality.
Which article is used with discreet?
"The" or "a" can be used, depending on the context.
Is discreet an adverb?
No, "discreet" is not an adverb. The adverb form would be "discreetly."
Is discreet a countable noun?
"Discreet" is an adjective, not a noun, so it's not countable.
Is discreet a collective noun?
No, "discreet" is not a collective noun.
Is the discreet term a metaphor?
"Discreet" can be used metaphorically to describe someone's behavior as careful or restrained.
What is the singular form of discreet?
The singular form is "discreet."
Which preposition is used with discreet?
"About" is commonly used with "discreet," as in "discreet about something."
Is discreet a noun or adjective?
"Discreet" is an adjective.
Is discreet an abstract noun?
No, "discreet" is an adjective, not a noun.
Is the word discreet imperative?
No, "discreet" is an adjective, not a form of a verb, and cannot be imperative.
What is a stressed syllable in discreet?
The second syllable, "creet," is stressed.
What part of speech is discreet?
"Discreet" is an adjective.
What is another term for discreet?
"Prudent" or "circumspect" are other terms for discreet.
What is the second form of discreet?
Not applicable, as "discreet" is an adjective.
What is the third form of discreet?
Not applicable for the same reason as above.
How do we divide discreet into syllables?
"Dis-creet."
Is discreet a negative or positive word?
"Discreet" is generally considered a positive word, denoting prudence and care in actions.
How many syllables are in discreet?
There are two syllables in "discreet."
What is the opposite of discreet?
"Indiscreet" or "imprudent" are opposites of discreet.
How is discreet used in a sentence?
"She managed the situation in a very discreet manner, ensuring no one was embarrassed."
Is discreet a vowel or consonant?
The word "discreet" starts with a consonant.
Which determiner is used with discreet?
Determiners like "the," "a," or "this" can be used with "discreet."
What is the first form of discreet?
As an adjective, "discreet" does not have forms like a verb. It remains unchanged.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
