Discriminate
To recognize or identify differences between things; to distinguish. In a negative sense, to treat someone unfavorably because of prejudice or bias.
verbDiscriminate
To recognize or identify differences between things; to distinguish. In a negative sense, to treat someone unfavorably because of prejudice or bias.
verbImagine This
Imagine a scientist comparing two minerals that look nearly identical. By testing color under a lamp and measuring refractive indices, she discriminates between them and identifies which is which.
Sounds Like
dih-SKRIM-uh-nayt
Looks Like
distinguish, discern
Remember This
The base meaning of discriminate is to distinguish differences. The negative sense (to treat someone unfairly) is common in modern usage and gives rise to the word discriminatory.
Other Forms
Connect With
distinguish, differentiate, discern, bias, prejudice, fairness, equality
Note
Use discriminate to mean 'distinguish' rather than 'judge morally.' The phrase 'discriminate against' refers to unfair treatment of a person or group; in neutral contexts, simply 'discriminate between' means to tell apart.
Study Deeper
- The archaeologist can discriminate between two pottery shards that look similar by examining the glaze and composition.
- Some employers have been criticized for discriminating against older applicants.
From Latin discriminare 'to distinguish, separate', from discriminum 'distinction, difference'; from dis- 'apart' + crimen 'distinction, judgment'.
Mnemonic: DISCRIMINATE = DISCERN DIFFERENCES. Remember that to discriminate is to discern differences between things.
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Bias
nounA preference or inclination that prevents impartial judgment; a prejudice or leaning toward or against a person, group, or idea.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Abscond
verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.