Synonyms of discretion

discretion

noun

di-ˈskre-shən 

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

• prudence
• wisdom
• sense
• wit
• policy
• intelligence
• common sense
• discreetness
• gumption
• sensibleness
• judgment
• insight
• horse sense
• logicality
• brains
• caution
• levelheadedness
• logicalness
• nous
• practicality
• foresightedness
• foresight
• rationality
• gray matter
• farsightedness
• discrimination
• street smarts
• discernment
• circumspection
• sagacity
• perspicacity
• acumen
• shrewdness
• astuteness
• precaution
• forethoughtfulness
• care
• penetration
• forehandedness
• sapience
• clearheadedness
• keenness
• rationalness
• premeditation

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indiscretion
• imprudence
• carelessness
• stupidity
• shortsightedness
• foolishness
• idiocy
• unreasonableness
• senselessness
• heedlessness
• half-wittedness
• brainlessness

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

• option
• choice
• preference
• liberty
• way
• alternative
• selection
• volition
• election
• pick
• vote
• determination
• druthers
• will
• free will
• judgment
• voice
• say
• inclination
• liking
• predilection
• propensity
• tendency
• penchant
• discernment
• partiality
• proclivity
• perspicacity

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• force
• duty
• coercion
• obligation
• duress
• Hobson's choice

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

• restraint
• discipline
• inhibition
• suppression
• repression
• composure
• reserve
• self-control
• constraint
• self-restraint
• possession
• refrainment
• control
• self-command
• continence
• mastery
• will
• self-discipline
• willpower
• distance
• modesty
• silence
• reticence
• command
• aloofness
• self-government
• bashfulness
• self-mastery
• taciturnity
• self-censorship
• shyness
• self-containment
• self-possession
• self-poise
• self-denial
• detachedness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incontinence
• disinhibition
• indulgence
• gratification
• unconstraint
• frankness
• candor
• bluntness
• overindulgence
• uninhibitedness
• intemperance
• self-abandonment
• unrestrainedness
• self-indulgence
• immoderacy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of discretion

The recent room renovation and the 2020s arrival of Bourbon Steak have kept it current without sacrificing the slightly old-school sense of discretion that loyalists love. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Aug. 2026

Planning Commission Chair Carlos Rosario added that the commission’s recommendations were merely advisory, while the City Council retains full discretion to hold public hearings and set the city’s policy direction. — Ryan MacAsero, Mercury News, 15 Aug. 2026

Additional pets may be permitted at management’s discretion for $15 per pet, per night, with the fee capped at $105 per additional pet for stays of seven nights or more. — Ashley Lynch, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Aug. 2026

Cats, birds and other animals need prior approval at Best Western’s discretion. — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 14 Aug. 2026