Diskretion
In German, 'discretion' is translated as Diskretion.
Diskretion refers to the quality of being discreet or keeping secrets. While the English word 'discretion' can also refer to the freedom or power to make one's own judgments, the German term focuses on the trait of being cautious and private.
Meaning: the freedom to make one's own judgements (noun)
Which one should you use?
In English, 'discretion' can mean the power to make decisions, such as in the phrase 'at your discretion'. In German, Diskretion is used for the quality of being secretive or prudent. If you wish to express the idea of having the power to decide, you should use different phrasing.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun Diskretion is feminine and is used with the definite article die.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using 'nach Diskretion' when you mean 'at one's discretion' (the power to decide). Instead, use the phrase nach Ermessen.
Did you know?
- In German legal contexts, Ermessen is not just a choice but a regulated power. The phrase Ermessensspielraum describes the specific 'room for maneuver' or legal boundary within which a person can exercise their discretion.
- The German language distinguishes between Diskretion and Verschwiegenheit. While both mean secrecy, Diskretion implies a tactful social grace and Verschwiegenheit refers more strictly to the act of remaining silent.
- In German, the concept of deciding something 'at your own discretion' is tied to the word Ermessen, which stems from a root meaning 'to measure'.
Examples in context
- Ich weiß deine Diskretion zu schätzen.I appreciate your discretion.This sentence shows how to express appreciation for someone's Diskretion.Tatoeba #2292075 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2291883 by CK
- Ich hoffe, ich kann auf Ihre Diskretion bauen.I hope I can count on your discretion.This sentence is useful for expressing a reliance on someone's Diskretion.Tatoeba #865805 by Espi, translation #657067 by darinmex
- Diskretion ist eine seltene und wichtige Tugend.Discretion is a rare and important virtue.This sentence describes Diskretion as a virtue.Tatoeba #444332 by MUIRIEL, translation #3764964 by cromwellt
- Es ist von größter Wichtigkeit, dass Sie Diskretion wahren.It is of paramount importance that you exercise discretion.
- Kannst du diskret damit umgehen?Can you handle this discreetly?
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas asks Sarah to handle a sensitive matter at work.
- LukasKannst du das bitte mit Diskretion erledigen?Can you please handle this with discretion?
- SarahNatürlich, ich sage niemandem davon.Of course, I won't tell anyone about it.
- LukasDanke, das ist mir wirklich wichtig.Thanks, that is really important to me.
- SarahKein Problem, Lukas, darauf kannst du dich verlassen.No problem, Lukas, you can count on that.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Diskretion, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
