1
as in prudence
the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters
we'll rely on your discretion in handling this accusation of cheating
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in option
the power, right, or opportunity to choose
ambassadorships are generally regarded as subject to the president's discretion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in restraint
the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others
in that job you'll be expected to show discretion and act like a professional at all times
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Examples of discretion in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The plaintiffs are asking the court to rule that under Georgia law, certification is a mandatory duty and that election superintendents have no discretion to delay or refuse certification.
—
Kaelan Deese, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 11 Sep. 2024
Unlike a high-end hotel, a condo provides a stable asset and a unique home where every detail is tailored to your taste with the utmost security and discretion.
—Roger Sands, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024
This date can be extended at the company’s discretion...
—Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 5 Sep. 2024
That’s because generally, state laws don’t allow people in these positions much discretion — if any at all — not to certify, after the election has been held, challenges about voting rules have been litigated through the courts, and the local election administrator has tallied the vote.
—Miles Parks, NPR, 4 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for discretion 
Kaelan Deese, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 11 Sep. 2024
Unlike a high-end hotel, a condo provides a stable asset and a unique home where every detail is tailored to your taste with the utmost security and discretion.
—Roger Sands, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024
This date can be extended at the company’s discretion...
—Scharon Harding, Ars Technica, 5 Sep. 2024
That’s because generally, state laws don’t allow people in these positions much discretion — if any at all — not to certify, after the election has been held, challenges about voting rules have been litigated through the courts, and the local election administrator has tallied the vote.
—Miles Parks, NPR, 4 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for discretion
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'discretion.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Articles Related to discretion
Thesaurus Entries Near discretion
Cite this Entry
“Discretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretion. Accessed 1 Oct. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share