Definition

1. 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

1. expressing careful judgment
   • discriminative censure
   • a biography ...appreciative and yet judicial in purpose-Tyler Dennett
2. capable of making fine distinctions