discreet

USAGE SUMMARY

"discreet" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that is done or said in a subtle or unobtrusive way. For example: "He whispered the secret in a discreet manner so that no one else would hear it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Lifestyle

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Things have changed a bit since my time," she adds, raising her eyebrows at two women, one black, one white, who wear nothing but discreet jewels between their legs and red feather head-dresses which trail down their backs.

The Guardian - Travel

She spent part of last year having very discreet conversations with the treasury as she sought to persuade George Osborne to commit serious money to building the artistic headquarters of his northern powerhouse plan.

The Guardian

The preparations by the "golden triangle" – cabinet secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood, the Queen's private secretary, Sir Christopher Geidt, and the prime minister's principal private secretary, Chris Martin – show how discreet work is underway as Whitehall gears up for a second successive hung parliament, which could prove still more complicated than the last one.

The Guardian

"I think there are a lot of people that exist like [Carol] who don't feel the need to shout things from the rafters," Blanchett said of her character, adding that the film was similarly discreet.

The Guardian - Film

I can't say this discreet device has ever bothered me, but the phenomenon is bothering lots of other people.

The Guardian

There is a discreet reek of money and horse manure about the lanes into Lambourne.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Schedule a meeting with your boss and find a suitably private space for this, rather than grabbing a seemingly discreet moment by the coffee machine," advises Hernan Daguerre, career expert at recruitment site Monster.co.uk.

The Guardian - Money

It was the first time the French business world, normally highly discreet about its private life, had seen a chief executive so publicly cavorting.

The Guardian

Had there been a briefing, or are they simply playing the role of discreet neighbours?

The Guardian - Opinion

Tasteful and traditional was the mood, the hush of lobbies in discreet uptown hotels.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I donned a thin grey cashmere poloneck, a pair of blue skinny jeans and some discreet flats.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "discreet" when you want to emphasize the importance of not drawing attention to something or maintaining privacy.

Common error

Avoid using "discreet" when you mean "discrete". "Discreet" means tactful or careful, while "discrete" means separate or distinct. For example, use "discreet" when referring to a confidential conversation, and "discrete" when discussing individual data points.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "discreet" primarily functions to modify nouns, describing the manner in which something is done or the quality of being subtle and unobtrusive. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and common usage of this term.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Lifestyle

15%

Less common in

Travel

10%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "discreet" is a grammatically sound and frequently used adjective meaning respectful of privacy, secrecy, or being subtle and unobtrusive. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, especially in news, business, and lifestyle content. When writing, remember that "discreet" differs significantly from "discrete", and consider using synonyms like "tactful" or "circumspect" for nuanced expression. By understanding its function, purpose, and context, you can effectively use "discreet" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

circumspect

Focuses on being wary and unwilling to take risks; highlights caution.

tactful

Emphasizes skill and sensitivity in dealing with delicate or difficult issues or people.

prudent

Stresses the quality of being careful and avoiding risks.

cautious

Highlights the carefulness and avoidance of potential problems or dangers.

guarded

Suggests a defensive posture, careful not to reveal too much.

subtle

Indicates a refined and understated quality, not immediately obvious.

unobtrusive

Emphasizes not attracting attention or being easily noticeable.

confidential

Focuses specifically on keeping information private and secret.

diplomatic

Highlights skill in dealing sensitively with others; often used in political contexts.

reserved

Suggests a tendency to keep one's thoughts and feelings to oneself.

FAQs

How to use "discreet" in a sentence?

You can use "discreet" to describe actions or behaviors that are intended to avoid causing offense or attracting attention. For example: "She made a "discreet" exit to avoid the crowd."

What is the difference between "discreet" and "secretive"?

"Discreet" implies being tactful and avoiding unnecessary attention, while "secretive" suggests deliberately concealing information. While both involve privacy, "discreet" actions are often performed to avoid embarrassment or maintain decorum, whereas "secretive" behavior often involves hiding something important.

What can I say instead of "discreet"?

You can use alternatives like "tactful", "circumspect", or "prudent" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to be "discreet"?

It's appropriate to be "discreet" when handling sensitive information, navigating delicate social situations, or needing to avoid unwanted attention. Being "discreet" is often valued in professional settings and personal relationships to maintain trust and respect.