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.

Discretion is the enemy here — not Warsh, and not the AI thesis.

From MarketWatch • May 8, 2026

Simmons sponsored Longshore’s bill, known as the Judicial Discretion Act.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 16, 2024

Discretion is a needed component in covering the news – and it is what is most lacking.

From Salon • Nov. 9, 2023

Discretion is essential: Do not make fun of our home on TikTok!

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 1, 2023

“We can’t help you. We’re the Swiss embassy. Do you know nothing about the Swiss? Discretion is kind of our thing. That’s what we do. Tough luck.”

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah

Vocabulary lists containing discretion

Fever 1793

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The Things They Carried

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The Tempest

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