discretion

[dɪˈskreʃən]

discretion Definition

  • 1the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense or revealing confidential information
  • 2the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation

Using discretion: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "discretion" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He handled the matter with great discretion.

  • Example

    Please use discretion when discussing this issue.

  • Example

    The company relies on the discretion of its employees to maintain confidentiality.

  • Example

    The judge used his discretion to reduce the sentence.

discretion Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for discretion

Phrases with discretion

  • at someone's discretion

    according to someone's judgment or decision

    Example

    The use of the company car is at the manager's discretion.

  • in a careful and prudent manner

    Example

    She spent the money with discretion, making sure to save some for emergencies.

  • to use one's own judgment in making a decision

    Example

    The police officer must exercise discretion when deciding whether to issue a ticket or a warning.

Origins of discretion

from Old French 'discrecion', from Latin 'discretio(n-)', from the verb 'discernere', meaning 'to separate, distinguish'

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Summary: discretion in Brief

The term 'discretion' [dɪˈskreʃən] refers to the quality of being careful and avoiding offense or revealing confidential information. It also means the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation. Examples include 'He handled the matter with great discretion,' and 'Please use discretion when discussing this issue.' Phrases like 'at someone's discretion' and 'with discretion' denote judgment and carefulness.

How do native speakers use this expression?