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

By automating tasks that once required human discretion, rulers can replace unreliable intermediaries with faithful algorithms that cannot be bribed or manipulated. — Seva Gunitsky, Foreign Affairs, 1 Oct. 2026

However, airline customer service may choose to offer compensation such as travel vouchers or meal credits based on their own discretion. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2026

The rulings highlight that leagues and their business partners have discretion in their dealings, including when their relationship might limit competition in the marketplace. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 Sep. 2026

Dulles and Duke both knew the talks had to be handled with discretion. — Literary Hub, 30 Sep. 2026