discrimination

noun

di-ˌskri-mə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce discrimination (audio)
Definition of discriminationnext
as in distinction
the state of being kept distinct in her mind there did not exist a discrimination between the imaginary and the real

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How does the noun discrimination differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of discrimination are acumen, discernment, insight, penetration, and perception. While all these words mean "a power to see what is not evident to the average mind," discrimination stresses the power to distinguish and select what is true or appropriate or excellent.

the discrimination that develops through listening to a lot of great music

Where would acumen be a reasonable alternative to discrimination?

The words acumen and discrimination can be used in similar contexts, but acumen implies characteristic penetration combined with keen practical judgment.

a director of reliable box-office acumen

When is discernment a more appropriate choice than discrimination?

Although the words discernment and discrimination have much in common, discernment stresses accuracy (as in reading character or motives or appreciating art).

the discernment to know true friends

When might insight be a better fit than discrimination?

While in some cases nearly identical to discrimination, insight suggests depth of discernment coupled with understanding sympathy.

a documentary providing insight into the plight of the homeless

When would penetration be a good substitute for discrimination?

The meanings of penetration and discrimination largely overlap; however, penetration implies a searching mind that goes beyond what is obvious or superficial.

lacks the penetration to see the scorn beneath their friendly smiles

When could perception be used to replace discrimination?

The words perception and discrimination are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, perception implies quick and often sympathetic discernment (as of shades of feeling).

a novelist of keen perception into human motives

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of discrimination This was due to, among other issues, financial problems and discrimination in the housing market. —Frey Lindsay, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025 Given the timing, their counsel argued, the unlawful arrests were the result of discrimination. —Kimmy Yam, NBC news, 18 July 2025 The state offers broad protections against discrimination of all kinds. —Scott Cohn, CNBC, 14 July 2025 The state has the largest percentage of people without health insurance, crime is on the high side, and state laws offer few protections against discrimination. —Scott Cohn, CNBC, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for discrimination
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrimination
  1. distinction
  2. separation
Noun
  • This distinction allows for protocols that satisfy technical requirements while addressing privacy concerns through meaningful limitations on what data will actually be examined.
    — Lars Daniel, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • This distinction means that complexes like Gabriel House are subject to a different inspection, certification and regulatory process than Massachusetts nursing homes.
    — Jared Kofsky, ABC News, 14 July 2025
Definition of distinction
Noun
  • The split will start in the fourth quarter of this year, when management spins off the advanced materials business, and continue in 2026 with the separation of aerospace, which will leave the automation business as the third public company.
    — Zev Fima, CNBC, 26 July 2025
  • Her eldest child, who was born when Yang was just 14, is taking the separation particularly hard.
    — Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 25 July 2025
Definition of separation

Browse Nearby Words

discriminating
discrimination
discriminational
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Cite this Entry

“Discrimination.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrimination. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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More from Merriam-Webster on discrimination

Nglish: Translation of discrimination for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about discrimination

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