What does "discretion" mean?
Discretion: The quality of being discreet; wise conduct and management; cautious discernment, especially as to matters of propriety and self- control; prudence; circumspection; wariness. The better part of valor is discretion. Shak. The greatest parts without discretion may be fatal to their owner. Hume.
Additional senses
- 2.Discrimination. Well spoken, with good accent and good discretion. Shak.
- 3.Freedom to act according to one's own judgment; unrestrained exercise of choice or will. At discretion, without conditions or stipulations.
Sources
- Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913 edition (public domain, via GCIDE / Project Gutenberg).
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- Published: 2026-07-17T00:00:00-07:00 · Modified: 2026-07-17T00:00:00-07:00