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
Fadler also gently advised using discretion when photographing the royals from afar.
—
Lisa Gutierrez,
Kansas City Star,
19 June 2026
Despite this, the association said recess remains at the discretion of individual teachers in many schools throughout the country.
—
Cierra Morgan,
Los Angeles Times,
18 June 2026
Winner may not substitute, assign, or transfer the Prize or redeem the Prize for cash, but Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to substitute the Prize (or any portion thereof) with one of comparable or greater value.
—
AJC.com,
18 June 2026
This may be particularly effective if prosecutors also use their discretion to decline more undeserving cases up front, treating the use of taxpayer dollars on prosecution as something that requires deliberate justification rather than something that happens by default.
—
Rebecca Dunlea,
The Conversation,
17 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for discretion
Lisa Gutierrez,
Kansas City Star,
19 June 2026
Despite this, the association said recess remains at the discretion of individual teachers in many schools throughout the country.
—
Cierra Morgan,
Los Angeles Times,
18 June 2026
Winner may not substitute, assign, or transfer the Prize or redeem the Prize for cash, but Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to substitute the Prize (or any portion thereof) with one of comparable or greater value.
—
AJC.com,
18 June 2026
This may be particularly effective if prosecutors also use their discretion to decline more undeserving cases up front, treating the use of taxpayer dollars on prosecution as something that requires deliberate justification rather than something that happens by default.
—
Rebecca Dunlea,
The Conversation,
17 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for discretion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discretion
Noun
-
Considering there were only 33 appearances this past season, such Heat prudence hardly could be viewed as insulting.
-
This is how a title is won, with prudence and luck and a foresight that becomes apparent in the afterglow of victory.
Noun
-
With retail prices starting around $19,000 for entry models and climbing past $100,000 for advanced ones, rentals offer a more accessible option.
-
Shop the comfortable, chic outfit-polisher in five color options, plus more Italian leather flats under $100.
Noun
-
Cornelius Houston will face charges of burglary of a habitation with intent to commit other felony and unlawful restraint, according to Fort Worth jail records.
-
Martin's family believes that the long paramedic response time, as well as restraint asphyxia caused by Oakland police officers, caused Martin's death.
Noun
-
But Russert says wisdom can help the political news landscape.
-
That's the kind of wisdom that takes a decade to build and one quarterly decision to permanently destroy.
Noun
-
Miltos’ Greek Table at Andronis Luxury Suites is the Oia choice for travelers who want romance.
-
Vic makes some baffling choices here, buzzing in twice on the first word in the series without hearing the rest, and getting eliminated from multiple rounds five seconds in.
Noun
-
Platforms built around incentive capture, funding cost discipline and structural durability are well-positioned to deliver the hedge that households are now actively seeking.
-
The Honorary Award is given to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline, or outstanding service to the Academy.
Noun
-
Against that backdrop, some say the ships are offering a surprising sense of connection.
-
Since relocating to Los Angeles, Gonzalez’s small downtown team has scaled Happy Organics into a design-forward brand carried by major retailers, anchored in local maker communities and a sense of purpose.
Noun
-
These distinct sauce styles are all rooted in traditions that developed in the coastal South, influenced by shifting populations, regional preferences, and supply chains.
-
As carbuyers' preferences have shifted, pricier vehicles have become the norm at dealerships, leaving budget-conscious shoppers with fewer affordable models to choose from.
Cite this Entry
“Discretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretion. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
