A discrete variable is a type of quantitative variable that can only take on specific, distinct, and separate values. These values are typically whole numbers and cannot be subdivided further. There are no intermediate values between the distinct points of the variable. 

Example: The number of siblings someone has is always a whole number (i.e., not 1.25). 

A continuous variable is a type of quantitative variable that can take on any value within a certain range. It can represent a spectrum of values and is not restricted to specific, isolated points. Continuous variables can have fractional or decimal values, and there are infinite possibilities between any two points on the variable's scale.

Example: Although we often round our height to the nearest inch, you could theoretically break that down to more decimal places (e.g., 5 feet and 2.1002939912... inches).