Definition

Not careful in making choices; lacking in selectivity or distinction.

Example

The indiscriminate use of pesticides can harm beneficial insects.

Conversation

Did you notice how indiscriminate the sales were during Black Friday?

Yeah, it felt like everything was on sale, but not everything was worth buying.

Exactly! I prefer to be more selective when I shop, instead of just grabbing whatever is on sale.

Same here! It's better to find quality items than to buy things on an indiscriminate whim.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indiscriminate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "discriminare" (from Latin, meaning to distinguish or separate) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating a state or condition). The word "indiscriminate" means not able to distinguish or separate, often referring to actions that are done without careful judgment or distinction.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to 'distinguish' ('discriminare') — that's why indiscriminate means acting without careful judgment.

Visually Confused Words