noun
discretion
dih-SKREH-shuhn
noun
1
The freedom or authority to make your own judgement or decision.
"The judge used her discretion to reduce the sentence."
"Refunds are given entirely at the manager's discretion."
2
The quality of being careful and tactful, especially about sensitive matters.
"The lawyer handled the case with great discretion."
How to Use Discretion
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe power to decide something yourself, or the tact to handle sensitive matters carefully.
Common pairings
at your discretion
use discretion
a matter of discretion
Word Forms
discretions plural
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The judge used her _____ to reduce the sentence.
Etymology
From Old French discretion, from Latin discretio, "separation, distinction" — the same Latin root as "discreet."