Discretion meaning in English
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Definition
discretion: diplomacy, prudence, tact
Examples
- "The Delavigne Corporation prides itself on discretion and honesty in all of its business dealings."
- "Most recently, while working in a special division of the British government, I demonstrated an exceptional facility for efficiency, organisation, discretion and meeting deadlines."
- "As this is an official FBI matter, please observe strict protocol for discretion and confidentiality."
- "I have some rather, um, sensitive operations that require a certain discretion, if you know what I mean?"
- "A role requiring efficiency, organization and discretion."
Exercise 1
"I have some... sensitive operations that require a certain discretion."
Brian means that:
Brian means that:
"I have some... sensitive operations that require a certain discretion."
Brian means that:
Brian means that:
This is correct. Brian explains that his visit to the store is "for work purposes". When he speaks of "sensitive operations" requiring "discretion", he's trying to avoid saying "industrial espionage" directly. The shopkeeper understands Brian's hesitation: "Would you like to follow me to the back of the store?". He confirms the secrecy by saying "We can discuss this in privacy. You never know who's listening in!".
This is not correct. Brian explains that his visit to the store is "for work purposes".
This is not correct. Brian explains that his visit to the store is "for work purposes".
This is not correct. On the contrary, Brian is interested in seeing more objects at the back of the store.
Exercise 2
What reason(s) does Philip give to explain why he won't answer Jean's questions?
What reason(s) does Philip give to explain why he won't answer Jean's questions?
This is not Philip's opinion, since he himself is in the middle of talking about sex at the office!
No, it doesn't seem like Philip is very worried about giving offense to anyone. Brian doesn't indicate that he is offended, either by the wild sex party or the political questions.
Yes, Philip says that Jean's questions are of a personal nature, and asks him to show more discretion, or tact. Philip says "you keep asking me all these personal questions about politics! Come on! Show some discretion here". This is quite ironic, given the nature of Philip's conversation with Brian!
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