Certain sets of words in the English language tend to confuse people. I have found the following to be among them:
DISCREET / DISCRETE
Though both discreet and discrete are adjectives, their meanings are quite different.
To be discreet is to observe good judgment concerning information that is best kept private. The word discrete, on the other hand, means separate, individually distinct, or noncontinuous, and as such is a term often used in mathematics and science.
INCORRECT: As a character trait, the ability to be discrete is highly prized in the medical profession.
CORRECT: As a character trait, the ability to be discreet is highly prized in the medical profession.
INCORRECT: Quantum physics deals with discreet energy levels.
CORRECT: Quantum physics deals with discrete energy levels.
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