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
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Recent Examples of discretion
In practice, reformers say, bail amounts have largely been set by vibes, with judges given broad leeway to use discretion.
—
Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026
The court ruled unanimously that the state constitution gives governors discretion in calling special sessions.
—David A. Lieb, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2026
Grand jury subpoenas are a powerful investigative tool wielded by federal prosecutors and issued at their discretion.
—Bloomberg, Mercury News, 28 May 2026
That discretion is part of why upper-arm placement is so popular.
—Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for discretion
Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026
The court ruled unanimously that the state constitution gives governors discretion in calling special sessions.
—David A. Lieb, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2026
Grand jury subpoenas are a powerful investigative tool wielded by federal prosecutors and issued at their discretion.
—Bloomberg, Mercury News, 28 May 2026
That discretion is part of why upper-arm placement is so popular.
—Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 28 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for discretion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discretion
Noun
-
This raised interest rates to punishing levels just as fiscal prudence was being tossed aside.—
Edward Lotterman,
Twin Cities,
31 May 2026
-
Strength and prudence are not the same thing.—
S.E. Cupp,
New York Daily News,
27 May 2026
Noun
-
The pools and beach area are a big draw for guests, but there is also a local membership option.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
1 June 2026
-
For Kadyshev, that difference in technologies exposes the difficulty in pursuing military options against Iran.—
Tamara Qiblawi,
CNN Money,
31 May 2026
Noun
-
Both dishes were perfectly prepared al dente and sauced with restraint, unlike many Italian-American eateries.—
Irene S. Levine,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2026
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As the broader fashion landscape moves away from restraint and toward self-expression, wedding guest dressing is evolving alongside it.—
Lauren Fisher,
Footwear News,
28 May 2026
Noun
-
Two questions about the wisdom of mandatory minimum sentences — a very contentious topic in legal circles — yielded only brief responses.—
U T Editorial Board,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
28 May 2026
-
Research by Gao, Niu, and Yu published in Frontiers in Psychology found that intellectual humility in leadership cultivates team environments rooted in trust and collaboration, where leaders lean on collective wisdom rather than individual authority.—
Mary Hemphill,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2026
Noun
-
Premier Sea View rooms, complete with balconies, are the prime choices.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
1 June 2026
-
But after losing two games to Saint Mary’s, as regional hosts for a second consecutive year, UCLA has no choice but to go back to the drawing board in preparation for 2027.—
Joaquin Ruiz,
Los Angeles Times,
1 June 2026
Noun
-
Historically, the difference has come down to political discipline, institutional credibility, and the absence of an external shock.—
Nick Lichtenberg,
Fortune,
2 June 2026
-
Women’s sports were not created because women lacked talent, discipline or courage.—
Dan Zaksheske OutKick,
FOXNews.com,
2 June 2026
Noun
-
Strategic shakeup Usually buying and selling is a cop out, but with where the Red Sox are in their competitive cycle the approach might make some sense.—
Mac Cerullo,
Boston Herald,
31 May 2026
-
Goins said the turnout Saturday reflected a sense of unity and hoped the protest would serve as a path forward for change and empowering communities of color, especially.—
Molly Gibbs,
Mercury News,
31 May 2026
Noun
-
In advertising, innovations in AI have led to the capability to analyze huge volumes of data, to tailor ads to individual consumer preferences and behaviors, and to enhance personalization in advertising.—
Melissa A. Wheeler,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2026
-
Your personal preferences influence your diet, as well as your cultural background.—
Maggie O'Neill,
Verywell Health,
28 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Discretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discretion. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.
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