discrete area

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "discrete area" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific, distinct, or separate region or section within a larger context. Example: "The research focused on a discrete area of study that had not been previously explored."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

But in each discrete area, good policy would make a difference.

The Washington Post

Immigration is often viewed as a discrete area of policy, and the relation between immigration, labour demand, and other policy areas typically remains unexplored in public debates.

The Guardian - Opinion

A minimum of 5 sampling units per discrete area is recommended for accurately describing habitats.

Marine Pollution Bulletin

The technology stretches across the whole spectrum of science, touching medicine, physics, engineering and chemistry, and so is difficult to pin down to one discrete area.

The Guardian

Unlike battle maps that covered a discrete area or a particular battle, Bachmann's birds' eye views enabled some sense of the actual landscape of the war.

The New York Times

In a joint statement about to be sent to the DfE, the examiners write: "An exclusively academic study of Romantic poets as a discrete area would create obvious negative consequences for teaching GCSE English literature in schools".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Loss and damage are only readily measured in discrete areas.

The New York Times

There, he said, newsboxes "are located in discrete areas and are much less obtrusive".

The New York Times

Netting is used sometimes, but that's better for small, discrete areas.

The New York Times

Description: (ERZs) should be established that operate over large, discrete areas.

The Guardian

These discrete areas can be sampled on the ground for maturity and harvested separately.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "discrete area" to clearly define a specific, separate, and identifiable region or field within a broader context. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "discrete area" when referring to overlapping or interconnected regions. The phrase implies distinct boundaries, so ensure the context reflects this separation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "discrete area" functions as a noun phrase, where "discrete" modifies the noun "area". It describes a specific, identifiable region or space, often emphasizing its distinctness or separateness from other areas. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "discrete area" is a commonly used and grammatically sound term that effectively denotes a separate and distinct region, field, or domain. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is used across various disciplines, particularly in science and news media, to highlight specific and clearly defined zones. When writing, it's best practice to employ the phrase to clearly delineate a specific zone and avoid ambiguity, and avoid using it when referring to overlapping or interconnected areas. Alternatives such as "distinct region" or "separate zone" can be used to provide different emphasis on the nature of the region being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

separate zone

Emphasizes physical separation and demarcation.

distinct region

Highlights the unique characteristics and boundaries of an area.

specific domain

Focuses on the particular field or scope of an area.

defined space

Stresses the clarity and precision of the area's boundaries.

isolated pocket

Suggests a small, detached area, often with unique features.

individual sector

Implies a separate and independent part within a larger system.

autonomous segment

Highlights self-governance and independence of a portion.

independent territory

Focuses on control and sovereignty of an area.

self-contained unit

Emphasizes completeness and lack of external dependence.

demarcated zone

Highlights areas with clear boundaries and established divisions.

FAQs

How can I use "discrete area" in a sentence?

You can use "discrete area" to refer to a distinct or separate region. For example, "The study focused on a "discrete area" of the brain responsible for facial recognition."

What can I say instead of "discrete area"?

You can use alternatives like "distinct region", "separate zone", or "specific domain" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "discrete area"?

Use "discrete area" when you want to emphasize that a region or field is distinct and separate from others. It's suitable when there's a clear boundary or difference that sets it apart.

What's the difference between "discrete area" and "general area"?

"Discrete area" implies a specific, separate region with defined boundaries, while "general area" refers to a broader, less defined region. The key difference lies in the level of specificity and separation.