What does indiscriminate mean?
Indiscriminate means without making sensible distinctions or restricting action to a particular group, category, or purpose. It commonly describes violence, destruction, criticism, or the use of resources: an indiscriminate attack may strike any target, while indiscriminate criticism may ignore relevant differences. The word carries a strongly negative connotation because it suggests that careful judgment has been abandoned. It is also useful in more neutral technical contexts, such as describing a policy or treatment that applies broadly without exceptions. Although “indiscriminate” can simply mean broadly applicable, it usually implies that the breadth of application is excessive, careless, or unjustified rather than deliberately comprehensive.
Not limited to a particular group or category; applied or conducted without selecting among people, things, or possibilities.
"The flood damaged roads indiscriminately across the entire valley."
Often implies that the lack of distinction is excessive, careless, or unjustified.
Not based on careful distinction or assessment; arbitrary or unsystematic.
"The policy came under criticism for its indiscriminate application."
This sense is especially common in formal and legal contexts.
An indiscriminate choice spreads resources everywhere but gives special attention to no one.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indiscriminate come from?
The word comes from Latin indiscriminatus, meaning “unseparated” or “not distinguished.” It was formed from the negative prefix in- and the Latin root discriminare, “to distinguish,” which is related to discrimen, “difference” or “distinction.” English borrowed the form in the 17th century, and cognates such as discriminate, discrimination, and discretion preserve the same central idea of distinguishing or choosing between alternatives.
Related word forms
How indiscriminate is actually used
The adjective is commonly used in contexts involving violence, destruction, criticism, or the distribution of resources. It conveys a negative judgment that action lacks appropriate distinctions or restraint.
Easily confused with indiscriminate
“Discriminate” means to distinguish or treat people differently according to particular criteria, whereas “indiscriminate” describes conduct that makes no such distinctions.