сдержанный
sderzhannyy
The English word "discreet" is translated into Russian as сдержанный (sderzhannyy).
The adjective describes someone or something that is respectful of privacy or secrecy. Quiet. Diplomatic.
Meaning: respectful of privacy or secrecy, quiet, diplomatic (adj)
Which one should you use?
While сдержанный implies a positive quality of being composed or diplomatic, скрытный implies someone who is untrustworthy or habitually hides their true feelings/intentions.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine form of the adjective is сдержанная. The plural form of the adjective is сдержанные. To describe an action performed in a discreet manner, use the adverbial form сдержанно.
How do you pronounce it?
sderzhannyy
Did you know?
- The root of сдержанный comes from the verb держать, which means 'to hold'. To be 'discreet' in Russian literally translates to being 'someone who is held back'.
- A person who is сдержанный is often described as having 'cold' blood or a 'cool' head. This connects the linguistic idea of discretion to the physical sensation of temperature to indicate emotional control.
- Because сдержанный implies restraint, it is the standard word used to describe a 'moderate' or 'understated' style in art and fashion. A 'discreet' outfit in Russian is one that avoids flashiness to show sophistication.
Examples in context
- Он очень тактичныйHe is very discreet
- Пожалуйста, будьте ненавязчивымиPlease be discreet
- Обработайте это деликатно, без лишних словHandle it discreetly, without unnecessary words
- Он очень сдержанный человек.On ochen' sderzhannyy chelovek.He is a very discreet person.
- Мне нужен сдержанный ответ.Mne nuzhen sderzhannyy otvet.I need a discreet answer.
