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noun C2 Proficient

indiscretion

ihn-dihs-KREH-shuhn

Indiscretion (noun) means a lack of good judgment or tact, especially about private matters. Example: “His indiscretion cost him the trust of his team.”

noun
1
A lack of good judgment or tact, especially about private matters.
"His indiscretion cost him the trust of his team."
2
A careless or unwise act, especially one that reveals something better kept quiet.
"Leaking the memo was a serious indiscretion."
3
A brief, secretive romantic or sexual affair.
"The tabloids hinted at a youthful indiscretion in the senator's past."

How to use indiscretion

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA slip in judgment or tact — saying or doing something you shouldn't have.

Common pairings
youthful indiscretion a moment of indiscretion

Word forms

indiscretions plural

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His _____ cost him the trust of his team.

Etymology

From Old French, ultimately from Late Latin indiscretio.

Origin: Late Latin

Related words

Rhymes for indiscretion

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Frequently asked questions

What does “indiscretion” mean?

The word “indiscretion” means a lack of good judgment or tact, especially about private matters. In plain terms, a slip in judgment or tact — saying or doing something you shouldn't have.

How do you pronounce “indiscretion”?

“Indiscretion” is pronounced ihn-dihs-KREH-shuhn (/ˌɪndɪsˈkɹɛʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “indiscretion” in a sentence?

Here is “indiscretion” used in a sentence: “His indiscretion cost him the trust of his team.”

What part of speech is “indiscretion”?

“Indiscretion” is a noun.

Where does the word “indiscretion” come from?

The word “indiscretion” comes from Late Latin. From Old French, ultimately from Late Latin indiscretio.

How many meanings does “indiscretion” have?

“Indiscretion” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a lack of good judgment or tact, especially about private matters.

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