Spanish Conversation · Level 94
59 words
Spanish word
discreción
Pronunciation
IPA/diskɾeˈθjon/
Meaning
- feminine noundiscretion
Example
Muestra discreción con esa información.
Use discretion with that information.
More examples
Actuó con discreción y no habló de los detalles.
He acted with discretion and did not speak about the details.
Core concept
Tactful restraint in words and behavior.
Common phrases
actuar con discreción
act with discretion
mostrar discreción
show discretion
con discreción
with discretion
Similar words
tacto: Careful choice of words and manner to avoid offending or hurting someone.
reserva: Habitual withholding of feelings and opinions, showing little outward expression.
cortesía: Polite, courteous behavior and language that shows respect and good manners.
mesura: Self-control of emotions and actions to keep behavior moderate and measured.
Definition in Spanish
Capacidad de elegir palabras y acciones con prudencia para no revelar información sensible ni causar incomodidad.
Word origin
The Spanish word derives from Latin discretio 'distinction' via the verb discernere 'to separate', originally expressing the ability to distinguish what to say from what to withhold.
Usage tips
- English 'discretion' often denotes freedom to choose, but Spanish discreción chiefly denotes tactful restraint and does not usually mean 'discretionary power' in legal contexts.
Other meanings
- discernmentnoun
- tactnoun
Opposites
- imprudenciaimprudencenoun
- temeridadrecklessnessnoun
Related words
- discretodiscreetadjective
- discretamentediscreetlyadverb
- discrecionaldiscretionaryadjective