discretion
2 ENTRIES FOUND:
Britannica Dictionary definition of DISCRETION
[noncount]
1
:
the right to choose what should be done in a particular situation
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Each artist in the gallery has discretion over the price that will be charged for his or her work.
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The coach used/exercised his own discretion to let the injured quarterback play.
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The amount each person contributes will be left to the discretion of the individual. [=each person will decide how much he or she will contribute]
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Because of the violence in the movie, parental discretion is advised. [=parents are advised to think about whether or not they want their children to see the movie]
◊ Something that is done at your discretion is done if, how, when, etc., you choose to do it.
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You can cancel the service at your (own) discretion. [=you can cancel the service whenever you choose]
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Exactly how much to tip a server is at the discretion of the customer.
2
:
the quality of being careful about what you do and say so that people will not be embarrassed or offended
:
the quality of being discreet
—
opposite indiscretion
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He always uses care and discretion when dealing with others.
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She handled the awkward situation with great discretion.
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She is the soul of discretion. [=she is very discreet]
discretion is the better part of valor
— used to say that it is better to be careful than to do something that is dangerous and unnecessary
