Abstract: A discharge machining method for machining a workpiece by causing electric discharge between the workpiece and the machining electrode and an apparatus for practicing the method wherein, with the electrode confronting the workpiece in a primary machining direction and in the direction of a plane substantially perpendicular to the primary machining direction, the relative displacement of the electrode and workpiece is controlled in such a manner that a space is maintained between the electrode and the workpiece so that electric discharge occurs therein. The electrode is moved towards the intersections of straight lines which are parallel to and equally spaced from the contour of the electrode whereby the electrode is uniformly consumed. Very little abnormal arcing can occur. The machined workpiece has an excellent final configuration.