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.

Under this model, leaders give subordinates clear objectives but leave the tactical execution to their discretion.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

Instead, guidelines on the way officers should exercise discretion have changed.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

The FTC even argued the 1976 law’s “capacious” language “signals Congress’s intent to confer considerable discretion on the Commission.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

The Welsh government said it was working to "review the current arrangements" for the School Milk Scheme, but governing bodies had the discretion to design school dinner menus including soya, rice or oat drinks.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

Seeing Meg’s usually gentle temper was roused and her pride hurt by this mischievous joke, Mrs. March soothed her by promises of entire silence and great discretion for the future.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

Vocabulary lists containing discretion

Fever 1793

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The Things They Carried

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The Tempest

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