1
as in prudence
the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters
we'll rely on your discretion in handling this accusation of cheating
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in option
the power, right, or opportunity to choose
ambassadorships are generally regarded as subject to the president's discretion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in restraint
the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others
in that job you'll be expected to show discretion and act like a professional at all times
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of discretion
Behind those essential choices lay a rare blend of genius and discretion — a belief that style should never eclipse the individual.
—
Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2025
Without law enforcement involvement, per a provider’s discretion, a patient may have a toxicology screening panel, testing for the most common drugs.
—Kelly Puente, Nashville Tennessean, 4 Sep. 2025
Labor law accords wide discretion in formation of bargaining units, but sometimes too many options make a decision more difficult.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Sep. 2025
IndyStar uses discretion in naming people accused of crimes, considering the severity of charges and available information, among other factors.
—Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 3 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for discretion
Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 4 Sep. 2025
Without law enforcement involvement, per a provider’s discretion, a patient may have a toxicology screening panel, testing for the most common drugs.
—Kelly Puente, Nashville Tennessean, 4 Sep. 2025
Labor law accords wide discretion in formation of bargaining units, but sometimes too many options make a decision more difficult.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Sep. 2025
IndyStar uses discretion in naming people accused of crimes, considering the severity of charges and available information, among other factors.
—Ryan Murphy, IndyStar, 3 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for discretion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discretion
Noun
-
But those with long memories are tempering enthusiasm with prudence, remembering how the dot-com bubble led to unsustainable valuations and a painful crash.—
Tiz Gambacorta,
Forbes.com,
9 Sep. 2025
-
This was a chance for Biden to take the high road, to toe the fiscal line and display financial prudence.—
Boston Herald editorial staff,
Boston Herald,
31 Aug. 2025
Noun
-
The service will display the activities of not just stock traders, but also of those trading crypto, options and other assets.—
Jeff John Roberts,
Fortune,
10 Sep. 2025
-
The iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max will be made available in Deep Blue, Cosmic Orange, and Silver color options.—
Prakhar Khanna,
Forbes.com,
10 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Cox also called for restraint in reaction to Kirk’s assassination, noting that residents of Utah did not riot or loot or engage in violence, and instead held vigils and said prayers.—
Ted Johnson,
Deadline,
12 Sep. 2025
-
Despite efforts by the Biden administration to constrain the spyware market through its executive order, trade and visa restrictions, and sanctions, the industry has continued to operate largely without restraint.—
Vas Panagiotopoulos,
ArsTechnica,
11 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
The difference is the wisdom to recognize that giving away public-trust land and diminishing our quality of life forsakes the permanent greater good for the temporary benefit of a few developers and residents.—
U T Readers,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
7 Sep. 2025
-
The newlyweds' parents also shared words of wisdom.—
Ashlyn Robinette,
PEOPLE,
7 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
The glamorous look is more daring than Robbie's usual red carpet choices, but stands out as a striking entry in the naked dress trend.—
Charles Trepany,
USA Today,
13 Sep. 2025
-
The choice is still ours to make.—
Cornelia C. Walther,
Forbes.com,
12 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Because the threat of discipline exists, that could impact the trade market for Hill.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
10 Sep. 2025
-
Suddenly, Rogers was below average at all three core disciplines, and was sent to the Orioles at the trading deadline for prospects Connor Norby and Kyle Stowers.—
Tony Blengino,
Forbes.com,
9 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Bryce Young has to be better After building up an immense sense of goodwill, locally and nationally, with his second-half performance from last year, Young essentially melted away in the Jacksonville heat.—
DIAMOND VENCES,
Charlotte Observer,
10 Sep. 2025
-
Giving people a greater sense of agency.—
Kansas City Star,
Kansas City Star,
10 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Every individual brings unique needs, preferences and strengths.—
Cornelia C. Walther,
Forbes.com,
14 Sep. 2025
-
Before the Euros, players were asked to rank their penalty preference from one to 11.—
Charlotte Harpur,
New York Times,
13 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Discretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretion. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share