adjective
1.
a. : constituting a distinctive trait : distinguishing
the discriminating mark of this species is its varicolored plumage
b. : making a distinction : separating into constitutent parts : analytical
there is a unifying as well as a discriminating phase of judgment — John Dewey
2. : capable of making fine discriminations (as in respect to quality) : careful or fastidious in selection : discerning , judicious
a discriminating and severe critic of the output of younger poets
discriminating buyers
discriminating taste
• dis·crim·i·nat·ing·ly adverb