Descretion vs. Discretion — Which is Correct Spelling?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 1, 2024
"Descretion" is an incorrect spelling, whereas "Discretion" is correct and refers to the quality of being judicious in one's conduct or speech.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Descretion or Discretion
How to spell Discretion?
Descretion
Incorrect Spelling
Discretion
Correct Spelling
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Key Differences
"Discretion" starts with "dis-" like "distinct" or "distant."
Memorize the saying: "It's a 'dis-cretion' to choose your words wisely."
Visualize a person being discreet, which sounds like the start of "discretion."
Recall that "discrete" means separate, and "discretion" involves making distinct choices.
Think of "cret" in "Descretion" as a secret mistake in the word.
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How Do You Spell Discretion Correctly?
Incorrect: He has the descretion to make that decision.
Correct: He has the discretion to make that decision.
Incorrect: I trust your descretion on this issue.
Correct: I trust your discretion on this issue.
Incorrect: Use your descretion in this matter.
Correct: Use your discretion in this matter.
Incorrect: Your descretion is advised when sharing information.
Correct: Your discretion is advised when sharing information.
Incorrect: She showed great descretion at the meeting.
Correct: She showed great discretion at the meeting.
Discretion Definitions
Carefulness in what one says or does.
Use discretion when discussing sensitive topics.
The freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation.
It's up to the teacher's discretion to allow extra credit.
The right to choose or act according to one's own judgment.
Whether to go out or stay in is at your discretion.
The quality of behaving or speaking in such a way to avoid causing offense.
She handled the awkward situation with great discretion.
The quality of being discreet; circumspection
"the almost unknown young man who lived in the upper room ... coming and going with discretion" (Doris Lessing).
Freedom to act or judge on one's own
All the decisions were left to our discretion.
(Archaic) The ability or power to discern what is responsible or socially appropriate
"She had even condescended to advise him to marry as soon as he could, provided he chose with discretion" (Jane Austen).
Individual justice from experience in quality of perception: discrete.
The police came and searched us at their discretion because we were shouting at each other's faces.
The quality of being discreet.
Bob showed great discretion despite his knowledge of the affair.
The ability to make wise choices or decisions.
The freedom to make one's own judgements.
I leave that to your discretion.
Disjunction; separation.
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.
The greatest parts without discretion may be fatal to their owner.
Discrimination.
Well spoken, with good accent and good discretion.
Freedom to act according to one's own judgment; unrestrained exercise of choice or will.
Knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress;
The servants showed great tact and discretion
Refined taste; tact
The power of making free choices unconstrained by external agencies
The trait of judging wisely and objectively;
A man of discernment
The power of making choices unhampered by external constraint.
The manager has the discretion to give bonuses.
Discretion Meaning in a Sentence
The manager has the discretion to approve or deny leave requests.
Your discretion in handling the confidential documents is appreciated.
Use discretion when sharing personal information online.
Discretion is important when dealing with sensitive matters.
Discretion ensures that personal biases do not affect decisions.
The teacher used discretion when discussing student performances.
She advised us to exercise discretion while talking to the media.
Discretion can protect one's privacy and maintain professional boundaries.
The officer used his discretion to issue a warning instead of a ticket.
Employers value employees who show discretion and judgement.
Financial advisors must use discretion when managing clients' investments.
Teachers often have the discretion to adjust teaching methods for their students.
Lawyers must practice discretion when dealing with client information.
Judges often have discretion in determining sentences.
The ability to maintain discretion builds trust in professional relationships.
Using discretion can prevent unnecessary conflicts.
Discretion in law enforcement can lead to more fair outcomes.
Effective leaders know when to exercise discretion.
In diplomacy, discretion is a valuable skill.
Social workers use discretion to assess and address client needs.
Discretion Idioms & Phrases
To use one's discretion
To make a decision based on one's judgment.
The teacher can extend the deadline at her discretion.
At your discretion
You have the freedom to decide on the matter.
Funds will be allocated at your discretion.
Discretion is the better part of valor
It is often wise to be cautious rather than rash or courageous.
He decided to hold his tongue, proving that discretion is the better part of valor.
Common Curiosities
What is the root word of Discretion?
The root word is "discrete."
Which vowel is used before Discretion?
Typically, "a" as in "a discretion."
Why is it called Discretion?
It comes from Latin "discretio", meaning "discernment, power to make distinctions."
Which preposition is used with Discretion?
"At" as in "at one's discretion."
What is the verb form of Discretion?
"Discreet" is the related adjective; there isn't a direct verb form.
What is the singular form of Discretion?
Discretion itself is singular.
Which conjunction is used with Discretion?
Any conjunction can be used, depending on the sentence.
What is the pronunciation of Discretion?
It's pronounced as /dɪˈskrɛʃən/.
Is Discretion a negative or positive word?
Generally neutral, but often perceived positively.
Is the word Discretion imperative?
No, it's a noun.
What is the stressed syllable in Discretion?
The second syllable, "cre."
What is the opposite of Discretion?
Indiscretion.
What is the plural form of Discretion?
Discretions.
Which article is used with Discretion?
Either "a" or "the," depending on context.
Is the word Discretion a gerund?
No, it's a noun.
How do we divide Discretion into syllables?
Dis-cre-tion.
What part of speech is Discretion?
Noun.
Is Discretion a vowel or consonant?
Discretion is a word, not a single letter.
Is Discretion a collective noun?
No, it's not a collective noun.
How many syllables are in Discretion?
Three.
What is the first form of Discretion?
There isn't a "first form" as it's a noun, but related is "discreet."
Is Discretion an abstract noun?
Yes, it is an abstract noun.
Is the Discretion term a metaphor?
Not inherently, but it can be used metaphorically.
Is the word “Discretion” a Direct object or an Indirect object?
It can be either, depending on the sentence.
Which determiner is used with Discretion?
It varies, e.g., "this," "that," "my," "our."
Is Discretion a noun or adjective?
Discretion is a noun.
Is Discretion an adverb?
No, it's not an adverb.
Is Discretion a countable noun?
It can be, e.g., "several discretions."
What is another term for Discretion?
Prudence or judiciousness.
How is Discretion used in a sentence?
"He showed great discretion in handling the confidential information."
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
