Discretion

usgb/dɪˈskreʃn/
noun

The ability to decide responsibly.

It is up to the teacher's discretion to decide if the student needs further punishment.
Visual representation of "discretion" - The ability to decide responsibly

Often appears as...

  • at one's discretion
  • within one's discretion
Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "discretion"
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Responsible Choice

Discretion involves making choices that are responsible and consider consequences.

Illustration for Responsible Choice
The principal showed discretion in handling the school incident.
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Personal Judgment

Using discretion often means relying on personal judgment, not just rules.

Illustration for Personal Judgment
She used her own discretion to allow the students a break.
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Context-Sensitive

Discretion requires considering the specific situation's context when deciding.

Illustration for Context-Sensitive
He had the discretion to tailor the lesson to the students' needs.
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Compare with

calculatecarecautioncircumspectiondiscernmentjudgementprudentialsagacity
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Visual representation of the word "Discretion"

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