# discretion

/dɪsˈkɹɛʃən/ (US) · /dɪskɹˈɛʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/discretion
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. freedom to decide

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the right or power to decide what should be done in a particular situation.

For teachers: the power or right to decide or act according to one's own judgement. Often used in formal contexts regarding authority or legal power.

- The judge has the discretion to reduce the sentence if the person is sorry.
- The distribution of the remaining funds is left entirely to the committee's discretion, provided they adhere to the original charitable goals.

Usage: Commonly follows the preposition 'at' (e.g., 'at the manager's discretion').

## Examples

- The manager has the discretion to give you a refund.
- Because the matter was highly sensitive, the diplomat handled the negotiations with great discretion to avoid a public scandal.
- 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.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.