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

Medical debt Medical debt is also frequently negotiable because healthcare providers often have more discretion than traditional lenders in collecting unpaid balances. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 July 2026

Border officers have broad discretion, and retirees who spend lengthy periods in the country can face additional questioning. — Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026

Some teachers were also concerned about losing their discretion in deciding what students should be required to read. — Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 1 July 2026

Courts have traditionally given presidential administrations of both parties wide discretion over immigration policy, even if the justices drew the line at letting Trump redefine who is an American through an executive order. — Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 1 July 2026