Words / C1

di-SKREET/dɪˈskriːt/

Discreet means careful not to attract attention or cause embarrassment — tactful and quiet about private facts. Tactful is everyday; confidential describes the information, not the person. Discrete (already in this dictionary) means separate, distinct units — a different word with a different spelling. Discretion is the noun (at your discretion; show discretion). In speech, keep it to yourself or be tactful is enough.

Meaning

Careful not to attract attention or embarrass someone (not discrete, which means separate).

Examples

• “Please be discreet with this information.”
• “Please be discreet: the shortlist is not public yet.”
• “A discreet side door let guests leave without a fuss.”

Good to know

Tactful; not obvious. NOT discrete (= separate). Noun: discretion. Everyday: tactful / keep it quiet.

Near in meaning

tactful

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