discretion
dih-SKRESH-un
/dɪˈskreʃn/
The quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offense or revealing private information.
It can also mean the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation (e.g., 'at your discretion').
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'discernere,' meaning 'to separate' or 'to distinguish.' It implies the ability to separate what should be said from what should be kept secret.
Word relationships
- prudence: Prudence is about being cautious for one's own benefit; discretion is about being cautious for the sake of a situation or others.
- indiscretion: A lack of judgment or a failure to keep a secret.
Commonly confused with
- discernment: Discernment is about seeing clearly; discretion is about acting/speaking carefully.
Word family
- discreet (adjective): Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions.
- discreetly (adverb): In a discreet manner.
Collocations
- absolute discretion
- discretion is advised
- at the discretion of
Idioms & expressions
- discretion is the better part of valor
Example sentences
- "The better part of valor is discretion; in the which better part I have saved my life." A famous literary quote.
- "The diplomat was known for his absolute discretion, never leaking a word of the private talks." Professional confidentiality.
Memory hook
Discretion is 'secret-ion'—knowing which secrets to keep. Knowing when to stay quiet.
When not to use
Don't confuse with 'discernment,' which is the ability to judge well, though they share a root.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'discretion is the better part of valor' originally meant that being cautious is often smarter than being recklessly brave.
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