ENGLISH
REFERENCE

discretion

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced Oxford US //dɪsˈkɹɛʃən// UK //dɪskɹˈɛʃən// dis·cre·tion

n. the freedom to choose what to do in a certain situation. It can also mean the ability to keep a secret or be careful not to offend people.

n. the freedom or power to make decisions based on individual judgment; also, the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offence or revealing private information.


SIMPLE

The manager has the discretion to give you a refund.

CONTEXTUAL

Because the matter was highly sensitive, the diplomat handled the negotiations with great discretion to avoid a public scandal.

COMPLEX

While the policy provides a general framework, local authorities are granted significant discretion to adapt the rules to the specific socioeconomic needs of their communities.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English discrecioun, from Old French discretion, from Late Latin discrētiō, from Latin discerno. Equivalent to discreet + -ion.

Usage

Often follows the preposition 'at' ('at someone's discretion') or 'with' ('with discretion').

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