Discreet
/dɪˈskriːt/
Definitions
Showing care or circumspection in one's behavior or speech; prudent. Avoiding causing offense or revealing confidential information.
/dɪˈskriːt/
Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, especially in order to avoid causing offense or revealing confidential information.
The spy was very discreet in gathering information.
💡 Simply: Being discreet is like being a ninja with your words and actions. You're careful not to blurt out secrets or make people feel uncomfortable. Imagine you hear a friend's secret; being discreet means keeping it to yourself, like a super-secret agent!
👶 For kids: Being discreet means being quiet and careful so you don't say or do anything that might hurt someone's feelings or tell a secret.
More Examples
She made a discreet inquiry about his health.
He made a discreet gesture of support.
How It's Used
"She was very discreet when asking about his personal life."
"The diplomat handled the negotiations in a discreet manner."
"The lawyer kept the details of the case discreet."
Idioms & expressions
a discreet silence
A period of quietness observed out of respect, tact, or to avoid causing offence.
"There was a discreet silence as the judge delivered the verdict."
exercise discretion
To use one's own judgment and act wisely in a situation.
"The manager asked her employees to exercise discretion when dealing with sensitive customer complaints."
From Middle French *d(i)screet*, from Latin *discretus* ('separate, distinct, prudent'), past participle of *discernere* ('to discern').
The word discreet has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to being 'prudent' or 'wise.' Over time, its meaning has evolved to emphasize caution and secrecy.
Memory tip
Think of a detective being discreet while investigating a case. They don't want anyone to know what they're doing.