Discreet vs Discrete
discreet
tactful/careful
discrete
separate/distinct
How to tell them apart
discreEt keeps its two E's side by side, cozy, like a tactful person keeping a secret close. discretE has its E's separated by the T, standing apart = distinct. E's together = careful; E's apart = separate.
Test yourself
Which word fits from context? Pick one, then reveal the answer. This is exactly how the GRE tests these pairs.
Question 1
Handling the delicate negotiations required a intermediary who could carry sensitive messages without ever betraying either party's confidence.
Choose: discreet or discrete
Show answer
Answer: discreet
"without ever betraying either party's confidence" signals tactful carefulness = discreet; discrete (separate/distinct) does not describe a trustworthy go-between.
Question 2
The report divided the sprawling project into five phases, each with its own budget, deadline, and distinct deliverables.
Choose: discreet or discrete
Show answer
Answer: discrete
"five... phases, each with its own budget, deadline" signals separate units = discrete; discreet (tactful) cannot describe project phases.
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