discretion

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /dɪˈskrɛʃən/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Noun

Singular discretion

Plural discretions

1. (uncountable) Discretion is the ability and power to decide.

   The judge made a mistake in exercising his discretion to end the trial early.

   The money will be offered at the discretion of the Environmental Health Department.

2. (uncountable) Discretion is the ability to do something in a way that does not upset people.
3. (uncountable) Discretion is the ability to keep a secret.

Related words

• discrete
• discretionary