Definitions

discretion

[dih-skresh-uhn] / dɪˈskrɛʃ ən /

NOUN

caution, judgment

Synonyms

STRONGEST

attention foresight maturity prudence responsibility tact vigilance wisdom

STRONG

acumen calculation care carefulness chariness circumspection concern considerateness consideration deliberation diplomacy discernment discrimination forethought gumption heed heedfulness judiciousness observation perspicacity precaution providence sagacity sense shrewdness solicitude thoughtfulness wariness warning watchfulness

WEAK

canniness good sense presence of mind

Antonyms

STRONGEST

carelessness disregard ignorance indiscretion negligence thoughtlessness

STRONG

heedlessness inattention indifference neglect omission

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Toscano says he tries to balance discretion and disclosure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

The warrant allows FBI officers the discretion to search digital devices or seize and transport them as part of the investigation.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

President Emmanuel Macron paid tribute to Bernadette Chirac as a "great woman of heart" who "left her mark on our history" and "changed so many lives with discretion and determination."

From Barron's • Jun. 6, 2026

Committee members can use discretion when selecting which — if any — companies make the cut.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

With equal discretion, the committee assured Burnham and Root that ultimately they would direct the design and construction of the fair.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

Vocabulary lists containing discretion

Fever 1793

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The Things They Carried

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The Tempest

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