Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumFrequently Confused Words

To ensure proper usage of the frequently confused words 'discreet' and 'discrete', which word belongs in each blank of the sentence below?

Answer:Although the researcher attempted to be 【discreet】 about her findings until they were peer-reviewed, the data consisted of 【discrete】 data points that could easily be cross-referenced by other teams.

Answer

The first blank requires 'discreet' (meaning cautious or confidential) and the second blank requires 'discrete' (meaning separate or distinct).
The correct response uses 'discreet' for the first blank and 'discrete' for the second blank. 'Discreet' is an adjective that describes being cautious, guarded, or keeping secrets, which fits a researcher waiting for peer review. 'Discrete' is an adjective that means separate, distinct, or individual, which describes the separate data points.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the first blank to determine the intended meaning of the target word.
The sentence describes a researcher trying to keep her findings private or confidential until they are peer-reviewed. This context requires a word meaning cautious, circumspect, or unobtrusive, which is 'discreet'.
Understanding the semantic context allows you to select the correct homophone.
2
Analyze the context of the second blank to determine the intended meaning of the target word.
The sentence refers to individual, separate, or distinct values (points) of data. This context requires a word meaning separate or distinct, which is 'discrete'.
Identifying the mathematical or scientific meaning of separate parts confirms the use of 'discrete'.

Key Concept

Frequently Confused Words: discreet vs. discrete
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Rate this question

Topics

Frequently Confused Words

More questions from this topic