discriminative
/dis'kriminətiv/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Expressing careful judgment; showing the ability to judge wisely and objectively: The word "discriminative" describes something that involves or demonstrates thoughtful and precise evaluation, often in a critical or analytical context.
- Capable of making fine distinctions; having the ability to perceive or understand subtle differences: This meaning refers to the quality of being able to identify and differentiate between very similar or nuanced details.
Usage and Examples
As an adjective expressing careful judgment:
- The professor's discriminative analysis of the poem revealed layers of meaning others had missed.
- Her discriminative taste in art makes her a respected critic.
As an adjective meaning capable of making fine distinctions:
- A discriminative palate is essential for a professional wine taster.
- The new software has a highly discriminative algorithm for detecting fraud.
Advanced Usage
- In a formal or academic context: "Discriminative" is often used in scholarly writing, criticism, and technical fields to describe precise analytical ability.
- The study employed a discriminative model to classify the data with high accuracy.
- Contrast with 'discriminatory': It is crucial to distinguish "discriminative" (about making careful distinctions) from "discriminatory" (which often implies unfair prejudice). A "discriminative policy" is one based on careful criteria, while a "discriminatory policy" is unjustly biased.
Variants and Related Words
- Discriminate (verb): To recognize a distinction or to differentiate.
- It is important to discriminate between fact and opinion.
- Discrimination (noun): The act of discriminating or making fine distinctions. (Note: This word also has the common meaning of unfair treatment).
- His discrimination in matters of style is impeccable.
- Indiscriminate (adjective): Done at random or without careful judgment.
- The indiscriminate use of antibiotics can lead to resistance.
Synonyms
- Discerning: Showing good judgment and understanding.
- Judicious: Having, showing, or done with good judgment or sense.
- Perceptive: Having or showing sensitive insight.
- Selective: Relating to or involving the selection of the most suitable.
Antonyms
- Indiscriminate: Not making careful choices or distinctions.
- Undiscriminating: Lacking the ability to judge quality or make fine distinctions.
- Uncritical: Not expressing criticism or using careful judgment.
Adjective
- expressing careful judgment
- discriminative censure
- a biography ...appreciative and yet judicial in purpose-Tyler Dennett
- capable of making fine distinctions