# indiscretion

/ˌɪndɪsˈkɹɛʃən/ (US) · /ˌɪndɪskɹˈɛʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/indiscretion
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a careless thing you say or do that shows poor judgment, especially sharing something private you should keep secret.

For teachers: a careless remark, decision, or behaviour showing poor judgment or disregard for privacy or social norms. Often implies a minor lapse rather than a serious offence, frequently involving disclosure of confidential information.

## Examples

- She regrets that small indiscretion at the party.
- The assistant's indiscretion about the merger talks spreads quickly through the office.
- His youthful indiscretion, though long forgiven by his colleagues, still surfaces whenever questions of trust and promotion arise.

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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.