discreet (B2)

adjective

Pronunciation: /dɪˈskriːt/

Definition

Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, especially in order to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.

Examples

• She made a discreet inquiry about his past without directly asking him.

• The manager handled the employee's mistake with discreet professionalism, avoiding public embarrassment.

• For a discreet meeting, they chose a quiet corner of the cafe where they wouldn't be overheard.

How to Use discreet

be discreet about (prepositional phrase)

To be careful not to reveal information about something. — "Please be discreet about our plans until they are finalized."

discreetly advise (collocation)

To give advice in a careful, private, or subtle way. — "He discreetly advised his colleague to review the report again."

Synonyms of discreet

Words with a similar meaning to discreet:

• careful
• cautious
• prudent
• circumspect
• tactful

Antonyms of discreet

Words with the opposite meaning to discreet:

• indiscreet
• obvious
• blatant

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