Definitions and Examples of disjoint, separate, distinct
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Not connected or related; separate.
Example
The two events were completely disjoint and had nothing in common.
Not joined or touching physically; apart.
Example
The two buildings were separate and had different entrances.
Recognizably different in nature from something else of a similar type.
Example
The two species of birds had distinct features that made them easy to tell apart.
Key Differences: disjoint vs separate vs distinct
- 1Disjoint implies a complete lack of connection or relationship between two things.
- 2Separate suggests that two things are not physically joined or touching.
- 3Distinct conveys the idea of clear differences between two things.
Effective Usage of disjoint, separate, distinct
- 1Mathematics: Use disjoint to describe sets that have no elements in common.
- 2Geography: Use separate to describe two land masses that are not connected by a bridge or tunnel.
- 3Science: Use distinct to describe different species or types of organisms.
Remember this!
The antonyms of overlapping are disjoint, separate, and distinct. Use disjoint to describe a complete lack of connection, separate to describe physical separation, and distinct to describe clear differences between two things. These words can be used in various contexts such as mathematics, geography, and science.
