noun

discretion

discretion, judgment, caution, tact

The decision is left to the discretion of the manager.

The decision is left to the discretion of the manager.

Please use discretion when discussing this sensitive matter.

Please use discretion when discussing this sensitive matter.

at sb.'s discretion at the choice of sb. Tickets are issued at the discretion of the committee.

use/show discretion to be careful/tactful He showed great discretion in handling the situation.

Synonyms: judgment, prudence, caution, tact

From Latin 'discretio', meaning 'separation, discernment'. It refers to the ability to 'separate' or discern the correct course of action.

Having discretion means you have the freedom to 'discern' or decide what should be done. It also means being 'discreet' (careful) in your speech or actions.

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