discretion

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "discretion" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun meaning the quality of being discreet; circumspection and the ability to make responsible decisions. Example sentence: He handled the situation with discretion, considering all possible consequences before making a decision.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, refunds may be paid at GNMA's discretion.

The Guardian

You shall remain liable for the fees although we may, at our discretion, refund you a proportion of the fees where we have been able to reallocate your place.

The Guardian

But Kearns said the court "is satisfied, in the circumstances of this case, that it is in the best interests of the unborn child; it should authorise at the discretion of the medical team the withdrawal of ongoing somatic support being provided in this tragic and unfortunate case".

The Guardian

They are currently at the discretion of local planning authorities.

The Guardian

In government it has committed only to a review of the laws, although the attorney general, Yvette D'Ath, has flagged concerns with anti-association and mandatory sentencing that removes discretion from judges.

The Guardian

The latest draft of these propoals, known quaintly as a "non-paper", offers three main options: a "sunset clause", new admissibilty criteria and a "pick-and-choose" discretion for the court.

The Guardian

The guidelines submitted by the NSA to the Fisa court demonstrate how much discretion the agency has in choosing who will be targeted.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even if it had, the IPCC, post-Hillsborough, has a discretion to investigate in exceptional circumstances – which can include the unusual gravity of the circumstances or an overwhelming, irresistible, public interest.

The Guardian - Opinion

In his advocacy for this regime change - to bring about a shift from discretion to a rule for monetary growth - he was conspicuously unsuccessful.

The Guardian

Nazmin Akthar, vice-chair of the Muslim Women's Network UK and a non-practising barrister, said judges should have discretion to allow veils in some circumstances.

The Guardian

Successful applicants will be chosen at the discretion of the Guardian Masterclass tutor(s) and the head of Guardian Masterclasses Australia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "discretion", consider the specific context. Is it about making wise decisions, keeping secrets, or having the freedom to choose? Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid misspelling "discretion" as "discression". "Discretion" refers to prudence and good judgment, while "discression" is not a recognized word.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "discretion" is as a noun. It represents the quality of being discreet or the power of making decisions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "discretion" is a versatile noun referring to the quality of being discreet, the ability to make wise choices, or the freedom to make one's own judgments. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage. It is frequently found in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, signifying its importance in both public discourse and professional settings. While alternatives like "prudence" and "circumspection" exist, understanding the nuances of "discretion" will enhance your writing precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prudence

Emphasizes carefulness and wisdom in decision-making, similar to "discretion" but with a stronger focus on foresight.

circumspection

Highlights the awareness of potential consequences and the need for caution, mirroring the careful aspect of "discretion".

good judgment

Focuses on the ability to make sound decisions based on available information, akin to the decision-making component of "discretion".

tact

Underscores sensitivity and skill in dealing with others, reflecting the social awareness often associated with "discretion".

delicacy

Implies a refined approach and avoidance of offense, sharing the subtlety aspect of "discretion".

prudence

Focuses on care and thought to avoid risks. Similar to "discretion" but with more of a risk avoidance aspect.

sensibility

Implies an awareness of the feelings of other people. Similar to "discretion" when making decisions.

freedom of choice

Emphasizes the independence to decide. Focuses on having power to decide, that is part of the meaning of "discretion".

right to choose

Highlights the entitlement to make personal decisions, a component of having "discretion".

power of decision

Focuses on authority and influence, a key aspect of "discretion" in certain contexts.

FAQs

How to use "discretion" in a sentence?

You can use "discretion" to describe the quality of being discreet or circumspect, as in "He showed great "discretion" in handling the sensitive information". It can also refer to the freedom to make one's own judgments, such as "I leave the matter to your "discretion"".

What can I say instead of "discretion"?

You can use alternatives like "prudence", "circumspection", or "good judgment" depending on the context. For example, instead of "It's up to your discretion", you could say "It's up to your "judgment"".

Which is correct, "discretion" or "discression"?

"Discretion" is the correct spelling. "Discression" is a misspelling and not a recognized word in the English language.

What's the difference between "discretion" and "secrecy"?

"Discretion" implies careful and judicious behavior, including maintaining confidentiality when appropriate. "Secrecy", on the other hand, simply refers to the state of being kept secret. While discretion may involve secrecy, it also encompasses broader aspects of good judgment and prudence. One could keep a secret out of "discretion" or out of a different intention.