a certain discretion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a certain discretion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific level of caution or judgment that is required in a particular situation. Example: "In matters of confidentiality, it is important to exercise a certain discretion to protect sensitive information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

"One expects a certain discretion.

The New Yorker

Even at her most sensational Ms. Ivekovic maintains a certain discretion.

The New York Times - Arts

There is a certain discretion, an aura almost of tenderness, that comes through these pages.

The New York Times - Books

The cushion-cut stones, what Mrs. Safra calls "softer" than the full sparkling facets, and the originality of a JAR ring when the Colombian emerald is framed by pearls, suggest a certain discretion that could be defined as the opposite of the bling-bling culture of the Russian nouveau riche who are currently the prime customers for high jewelry.

The New York Times

While it does get flashier every year, there is still a certain discretion about being well-dressed or having a nice car here, at least compared to New York or Los Angeles.

TechCrunch

We noticed that the Rules require, in general principle, local taxi administration authorities to manage the platform licensing application process, and a certain discretion is granted local governments to determine the detailed operating requirements.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

MR. KLOCK -- Under Florida law, she has certain discretion that I think a court probably does not have in the protest period, Justice Kennedy, and that would be that she had the discretion to decide whether or not returns could be permitted after that seventh day.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, its application requires certain discretion in drafting the intervals of tested parameters, as the model is strictly based on linear regression.

AMB Express

Stuart Harper, of Norml UK, the British branch of the National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, who had been involved in negotiations with police, said: "Obviously police officers have what's called judicial discretion, which means when they carry out their duties they have a certain amount of discretion.

The Guardian

"On one side, it gives the administrative agencies a lot of authority and a lot of discretion, and it also, on the other side, gives the nonprofit organizations a certain amount of discretion," Aprill said.

Huffington Post

The ratings agency said: The European Banking Authority has raised the capital hurdle for its European-wide bank stress test this year, but the robustness of the exercise will depend on final methodology and scenarios, and how regulators apply certain discretions.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a certain discretion", clearly define the scope and limits of that discretion to avoid ambiguity and ensure accountability.

Common error

Avoid stating that "a certain discretion" is needed without specifying the context or purpose. Instead, clarify what aspects require discretion and why it is important in that specific situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a certain discretion" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It denotes a specific, though not necessarily quantified, degree of careful judgment or confidentiality. As Ludwig AI explains, it is correct and can be used to point out the required level of caution.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a certain discretion" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that signifies the need for careful judgment or confidentiality in specific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not extremely common, its use spans across news, science, and formal business settings. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to specify the area where discretion is required to prevent ambiguity. Alternatives like "some level of discretion" or "a specific degree of tact" can provide nuanced variations depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some level of discretion

Emphasizes the degree or extent of discretion required.

a specific degree of tact

Highlights the need for sensitivity and skill in handling delicate situations.

a particular prudence

Focuses on careful and cautious behavior, especially in decision-making.

a measured restraint

Stresses controlled and deliberate action to avoid excess or inappropriate behavior.

due diligence

Highlights the need for careful investigation and assessment before making decisions.

appropriate confidentiality

Emphasizes the importance of keeping sensitive information private and secure.

judicious handling

Implies skillful and wise management of a situation or information.

sensible restraint

Focuses on applying good judgment and self-control.

a degree of circumspection

Highlights careful consideration of all circumstances before acting.

a moderate amount of tact

Indicates the necessary amount of sensitivity and diplomacy required.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a certain discretion"?

The phrase "a certain discretion" is suitable when you want to indicate that a particular situation requires a degree of careful judgment, sensitivity, or confidentiality. It's often used to highlight the need for tact and restraint in handling sensitive information or delicate matters.

What are some alternatives to "a certain discretion"?

Alternatives include "some level of discretion", "a specific degree of tact", or "a particular prudence". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a certain discretion" or "some discretion"?

Both "a certain discretion" and "some discretion" are grammatically correct. "A certain discretion" implies a specific, though perhaps not precisely defined, level of carefulness. "Some discretion" is more general, simply indicating that discretion is required without specifying the amount or type.

Can "a certain discretion" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a certain discretion" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to indicate that careful judgment or confidentiality is needed. Ensure that the context provides sufficient clarity regarding what requires discretion.