Meaning

(intransitive) To make distinctions..

Definitions by Sense

1. (intransitive) To make distinctions.
2. To treat or affect differently, depending on differences in traits.
3. (transitive) To set apart as being different; to mark as different; to separate from another by discerning differences; to distinguish.
4. Having its differences marked; distinguished by certain tokens.

Example Sentences

Since he was color blind he was unable to discriminate between the blue and green bottles.

Low self-esteem can affect both rich and poor people: it doesn't discriminate.

To discriminate the goats from the sheep.

Still stranger much, that when at length mankind Had reach'd the sinewy firmness of their youth, And could discriminate and argue well On subjects more mysterious

Nevertheless it is certain, that oisters, and cockles, and mussels, which move not, have no discriminate sex

Word Forms

• discriminates
• discriminating
• discriminated
• more discriminate
• most discriminate

Synonyms for discriminate

Antonyms for discriminate

Related Words

When Should You Use Discriminate?

Use discriminate when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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