show discretion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show discretion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to exercise careful judgment or to act with caution in a particular situation. Example: "In sensitive matters, it is important to show discretion to maintain confidentiality and trust."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In that case, regulators would have to show discretion, and the paper doubts that it would be politically possible for them to impose a buffer in good times.

The New York Times

I must say that mind would have fallen too, and may therefore be thought to show discretion in not putting forward a similar claim.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Less prejudice needed Mr Whittaker appealed to boys' clubs to be a little less prejudiced against the idea of a Teddy boys' association, and he asked the police to show discretion, goodwill, and helpfulness towards teddy boys.

The Guardian

Though Mr. Ray is an independent counsel, he is obliged to follow Justice Department guidelines that allow for prosecutors to show discretion and decline to prosecute a case if the subject has already paid a penalty -- like disbarment or even suspension from the practice of law.

The New York Times

The boy was not to submit too easily, and if pursued by more than one man, was to show discretion and pick the more noble one.

SEP

3. Universities with Confucius Institutes have been induced to show "discretion" by shunning people considered persona non grata in Beijing such as the Dalai Lama and top Taiwanese officials.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

But show discretion--make sure you don't embarrass yourself by sending sexy messages that get into the wrong hands.

WikiHow

Still, the Fed chairman showed discretion and restraint.

The New York Times

Mr. Mukasey said that federal prosecutors had a history of showing discretion.

The New York Times

"During his time at the U.S. Mission to the U.N., he showed discretion and good judgment, and did an excellent job representing our country during often very difficult circumstances". Bolton said.

The Washington Post

Usually, our television channels and newspapers have shown discretion, and what we have seen is, at most, merely a screenshot of the hostage looking abjectly into the camera — but we all know what came next.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "show discretion", consider the specific context and ensure the action aligns with the expected level of judgment and carefulness required. This phrase is particularly effective in scenarios involving sensitive information, ethical dilemmas, or potential conflicts of interest.

Common error

Avoid using "show discretion" in overly casual conversations. This phrase carries a level of formality and seriousness that may seem out of place in relaxed or informal contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "be careful" or "use your best judgment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show discretion" functions as a directive, often used to advise or instruct someone to act with careful judgment and sensitivity. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. The examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts where prudence and thoughtfulness are valued.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "show discretion" is a grammatically sound and contextually appropriate expression that advises or instructs someone to act with careful judgment, sensitivity, and prudence. As Ludwig AI verifies, the phrase is usable in various written contexts. Its usage is more frequent in news and media, wiki and academic settings, indicating a relatively neutral to professional register. While alternatives like "exercise prudence" or "use good judgment" exist, "show discretion" carries a specific emphasis on maintaining confidentiality and acting wisely in delicate situations. Therefore, it is essential to consider the specific context to ensure the phrase is appropriately used, avoiding overuse in overly informal conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise prudence

Focuses on careful and thoughtful decision-making, emphasizing wisdom and foresight.

act judiciously

Highlights making sound judgments and acting wisely, especially in practical affairs.

demonstrate tact

Emphasizes being sensitive and skillful in handling delicate situations.

use good judgement

Focuses on employing sound reasoning and making sensible decisions.

be circumspect

Suggests being cautious and carefully considering all circumstances before acting.

maintain confidentiality

Highlights the importance of keeping sensitive information private.

handle with care

Implies dealing with something sensitively and thoughtfully to avoid problems.

proceed cautiously

Suggests moving forward carefully and deliberately to avoid potential risks.

act responsibly

Focuses on behaving in a manner that is accountable and reliable.

practice restraint

Emphasizes controlling one's emotions and actions in a given situation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "show discretion"?

To "show discretion" means to act with careful judgement and prudence, especially in situations where sensitivity and confidentiality are important. It involves making wise choices and being thoughtful in one's actions and words.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "show discretion"?

The phrase "show discretion" is appropriate in contexts where careful judgment, sensitivity, and confidentiality are required. This includes professional settings, discussions of personal matters, or situations where the consequences of one's actions could be significant.

What are some alternatives to "show discretion"?

You can use alternatives like "exercise prudence", "use good judgment", or "demonstrate tact" depending on the context.

How does "show discretion" differ from "exercise caution"?

"Show discretion" emphasizes careful judgment and sensitivity, especially in confidential matters. "Exercise caution" focuses more broadly on avoiding risks and being careful in one's actions. While both involve prudence, "show discretion" carries a stronger implication of maintaining privacy and acting with wisdom in delicate situations.