discriminator: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “discriminator” mean?
A device, feature, or system that identifies, distinguishes, or separates one thing from another based on specific characteristics.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device, feature, or system that identifies, distinguishes, or separates one thing from another based on specific characteristics.
In machine learning, a component of a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) that evaluates whether data is real or generated.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general language but common in specific technical fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “discriminator” in a Sentence
discriminator of + [criteria/feature]discriminator between + [A] and + [B]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; may refer to a key factor that distinguishes successful products.
Academic
Common in engineering, computer science, and signal processing literature.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would be misunderstood by most non-specialists.
Technical
Essential term in electronics, machine learning, and telecommunications.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “discriminator”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “discriminator”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “discriminator”
- Confusing 'discriminator' (noun) with 'discriminatory' (adj. related to unfair bias).
- Using it in non-technical contexts where 'distinguishing feature' or 'criterion' would be clearer.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Only distantly etymologically. In modern technical use, it carries no social connotation; it is a neutral term for a device or algorithm that distinguishes based on technical criteria.
No. The related verb is 'discriminate'. 'Discriminator' is exclusively a noun.
The 'generator'. The generator creates data, and the discriminator evaluates it.
No. It is a specialised technical term. An average speaker might guess its meaning from 'discriminate', but would not use it actively.
A device, feature, or system that identifies, distinguishes, or separates one thing from another based on specific characteristics.
Discriminator is usually formal, technical in register.
Discriminator: in British English it is pronounced /dɪˈskrɪmɪneɪtə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɪˈskrɪməˌneɪtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a DISCRIMINATOR as a DIS-CRIME-inator: it 'calls out' the 'crime' of being fake data in an AI system, distinguishing it from the real thing.
Conceptual Metaphor
A GATEKEEPER (allows only certain things through), a JUDGE (makes a binary decision), a FILTER (separates based on properties).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'discriminator' MOST commonly used?