discretionary
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.
To close a deficit of more than $200 million that it announced last year, USC froze hiring, laid off roughly 1,000 workers, eliminated merit raises, sold unused buildings and cut discretionary spending.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 30, 2026
RVs are considered among the first discretionary purchases cut from budgets when middle-class Americans tighten their belts.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 22, 2026
“While not ideal — and generally I try to encourage clients to reduce discretionary expenses first — sometimes it’s the only option,” she said.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 15, 2026
That leaves 10% for savings, miscellaneous expenses and all discretionary spending, which is inadequate if the family wants to work toward financial independence.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 15, 2026
Most prosecutors’ offices lack any manual or guidebook advising prosecutors how to make discretionary decisions.
From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander
Vocabulary lists containing discretionary
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857)
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Just Mercy
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