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

And last Sunday, in these pages, Coulter lamented losing his unfettered discretion on where to shelve books. — Robert Steinbuch, Arkansas Online, 18 Sep. 2026

The bill gives the president discretion over how it is implemented, including authority over imposing tariffs and the ability to waive certain sanctions under specified conditions. — Samya Kullab, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026

The rule gives immigration officers wider discretion when deciding who gets a green card or certain visas. — Elijah Westbrook, CBS News, 18 Sep. 2026

McLean remained in the game at the discretion of interim manager Andy Green, The Athletic reported. — Angel Saunders, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026