discretion
n. US //dɪsˈkɹɛʃən// UK //dɪskɹˈɛʃən// dis·cre·tion
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1 freedom to decide (n.) C1 Advanced Formalthe right or power to decide what should be done in a particular situation.
the power or right to decide or act according to one's own judgement. Often used in formal contexts regarding authority or legal power.
ExampleThe judge has the discretion to reduce the sentence if the person is sorry.
ExampleThe distribution of the remaining funds is left entirely to the committee's discretion, provided they adhere to the original charitable goals.
UsageCommonly follows the preposition 'at' (e.g., 'at the manager's discretion').
From Middle English discrecioun, from Old French discretion, from Late Latin discrētiō, from Latin discerno. Equivalent to discreet + -ion.
- Noundiscretion
- Adjectivediscretionary