a discreet issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a discreet issue" is not correct in the context you might be intending.
The correct term is "discrete issue." You can use "discrete issue" when referring to a distinct or separate matter that can be considered independently. Example: "The report highlighted a discrete issue that required further investigation."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But as we move to increase awareness of discreet issues with high-performing students -- notable rates of depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, cheating, drug use, etc. -- we risk missing the heart of the problem.

Huffington Post

In conclusion, we hope that the readers will find in this special issue a discreet panoramic view of the puzzling mechanisms involved in chronic pain development.

BioMed Research International

With Wonga's plans to list on the stock market on ice, the company is reportedly looking to raise capital through a more discreet bond issue.

The Guardian - Business

The play's only other character is family friend Jenny (El Beh), who understands Becky and John and offers some support to both while maintaining a discreet distance from their issues.

Huffington Post

If he had played a discreet, long-term hand rather than force the issue, could he have cleaned up the company more effectively and kept his job?

The Economist

The predictors of CVCT uptake included: recruiting INAs who have tested with partners, focusing invitations on INA acquaintances, issuing invitations to couples and in a discreet location, and utilising INAs from non-governmental and health networks.

BMJ Open

And we have our network of partners which provides us a discreet channel of communication to other governments on the most sensitive issues.

The Guardian

"My vision has always been to create a discreet, private space for girls to talk about the most important issues in their lives: their relationships".

TechCrunch

Diplomats noted that the Obama White House still appears to lack a discreet back channel that would allow President Obama and Netanyahu to directly handle sensitive issues, but the glimmerings of one may have emerged in this crisis.

The Washington Post

"The 1990s are over," says Nimrod Goren, an Israeli academic who kept open a discreet channel when even Turkish and Israeli spies refused to exchange words.And a host of regional issues may yet prise them apart.

The Economist

Wang Peisan gave a discreet smile.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to something that is intended to be private or handled with care, consider using "sensitive issue" or "confidential matter" instead of "a discreet issue" for greater clarity and accuracy.

Common error

The adjective "discreet" means tactful or careful to avoid causing embarrassment or attracting too much attention. The adjective "discrete" means individually separate and distinct. A common mistake is using "discreet" when "discrete" is more appropriate, especially when referring to separate or distinct items. Remember to use "discrete" when you mean separate and distinct and "discreet" when you mean tactful or private.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a discreet issue" functions as a noun phrase, where "discreet" modifies the noun "issue". However, based on Ludwig AI's assessment and the available examples, the usage is questionable because "discreet" implies tactfulness or privacy, which doesn't logically connect with the concept of an "issue". The intended meaning is more likely to involve something separate or distinct.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a discreet issue" is not the most grammatically sound or commonly accepted expression. Ludwig AI advises that it is better to use "discrete" when referring to separate issues. If the intention is to emphasize privacy or sensitivity, alternatives such as "a "sensitive issue"" or "a "confidential matter"" are more appropriate and accurate. The key takeaway is to be mindful of the distinction between "discreet" and "discrete" and choose the word that best reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a separate issue

Replaces "discreet" with "separate", emphasizing the distinct nature of the issue.

a distinct issue

Uses "distinct" instead of "discreet", highlighting the issue's individuality and clarity.

a confidential matter

Replaces "issue" with "matter" and "discreet" with "confidential", shifting the focus to privacy.

a sensitive issue

Emphasizes the delicate nature of the issue, implying it requires careful handling.

a private matter

Highlights the private nature of the issue, suggesting it is not for public knowledge.

a self-contained issue

Focuses on the issue's independence and lack of connection to other issues.

an isolated case

Replaces "issue" with "case", suggesting a unique and unconnected occurrence.

a closely guarded secret

Emphasizes the secrecy surrounding the issue.

a matter handled with discretion

Focuses on the careful and prudent way the issue is being managed.

a discreet inquiry

It emphasizes the subtle and cautious way of dealing with the issue.

FAQs

What is the difference between "discreet" and "discrete"?

"Discreet" means tactful and careful, aiming to avoid causing offense or attracting attention. "Discrete" means separate and distinct. For example, you might have a "discrete issue" to address, handling it in a "discreet manner".

When is it appropriate to use the word "discreet"?

Use "discreet" when you want to describe something done in a way that avoids causing embarrassment or attracting attention. For example, "a "discreet nod"" or "a "discreet entrance"".

What are some alternatives to "a discreet issue" that might be more accurate?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "a discreet issue" might include "a "separate issue"", "a "sensitive issue"", or "a "confidential matter"".

Is "a discreet issue" grammatically correct?

While the phrase "a discreet issue" might be understood, it is not the most accurate or common way to express the intended meaning. It is better to use "discrete" when referring to separate issues or to rephrase using alternatives like "sensitive issue" or "confidential matter".