Discretion is a polysemic term. In the first instance, it is about the caution that an individual possesses and that allows him to keep to himself the secrets he has or the information he possesses, data in which other people could be interested. This is how it is also called prudence when speaking and acting, especially when there are circumstances that require sensitive attitudes. It can be used to emphasize that the power over any matter is left to the judgment, will or criteria of someone else.
What is discretion
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In the Spanish language, the word "discreción" was taken from the Latin "discretio", also known as "discretionis", around the 13th century; This can be translated as "the act of discerning" and it was from this definition that the current meaning of the word that refers to prudence was built. In contrast to this, there is indiscretion, that attitude that is characterized by the lack of good sense and sanity, when intervening in a conversation or when performing certain actions; it is a kind of "tactlessness" when addressing other people.
Discretion is a virtue that is required in some environments, regardless of its nature. In some jobs, especially those that involve being related to the State or government entities, they expect their employees to be prudent and discreet, which is why seriousness and moderation are requested in the work area. When interpersonal relationships are maintained with other individuals and they confer their intimacies on someone, they expect them to maintain a certain reserve regarding them. There are different synonymous discretion, among them, caution, silence, dissimulation, etc.
Importance of discretion
Currently, there are different elements of great importance to keep personal relationships afloat in a society, among these elements is discretion, because with it people tend to feel more comfortable and secure according to the issues or situations that arise. Discretion in the office, for example, maintains a consistent environment among workers, more comfortable, more enjoyable. Many values are needed to maintain a stable relationship regardless of the range or context of which it is spoken, but even more, some situations need to be left to discretion, which is why the term is so important in a society.
No person can feel safe in a hostile environment or where it is known that there are subjects who share the information provided in other environments, it is uncomfortable to know that someone can share intimate information of one or more people with another group of subjects, therefore, apart from the Respect and solidarity in social groups, discretion is requested, sometimes this is implicit, but at other times it is necessary to say or stipulate it. It can be said that a person is discreet when he acts with good sense, self-control, respect, solidarity and sincerity in social groups.
5 examples of discretion
- Discretion can cover different contexts and situations, which is why in this section 5 practical examples will be provided according to the topic being addressed.
- When you talk about a sensitive family topic and it is not disclosed to others, you are facing discretion.
- When there are work problems with a colleague and the subject is not discussed in other departments of the company, discretion is faced.
- When one of the parties in a romantic relationship shares intimate photos with his partner and he does not share it with his friends, he is not only facing respect and trust, but also in a discreet environment.
- When someone's secrets are not disclosed, you are discreet and when comments about someone else are concealed, you are discreet.
Discretion phrases
- When one is silent, one learns to hear and by listening one learns to speak.
- The person who reveals the secrets of another subject is classified as a traitor, preferring to be a snitch than to be cautious.
Frequently Asked Questions about Discretion
What does it mean to be a discreet person?
It means being a respectful, fearless, cautious, trustworthy subject that transmits peace and friendship.What is the value of discretion?
It is about the importance of maintaining personal relationships based on caution.
