dis·cre·tion

/dıˈskrɛʃən/ noun [noncount]

1 : the right to choose what should be done in a particular situation

Each artist in the gallery has discretion over the price that will be charged for his or her work.

The coach used/exercised his own discretion to let the injured quarterback play.

The amount each person contributes will be left to the discretion of the individual. [=each person will decide how much he or she will contribute]

Because of the violence in the movie, parental discretion is advised. [=parents are advised to think about whether or not they want their children to see the movie]

◇ Something that is done at your discretion is done if, how, when, etc., you choose to do it.

You can cancel the service at your (own) discretion. [=you can cancel the service whenever you choose]

Exactly how much to tip a server is at the discretion of the customer.

2 : the quality of being careful about what you do and say so that people will not be embarrassed or offended : the quality of being discreet

He always uses care and discretion when dealing with others.

She handled the awkward situation with great discretion.

She is the soul of discretion. [=she is very discreet]

— opposite ↑indiscretion

discretion is the better part of valor

— used to say that it is better to be careful than to do something that is dangerous and unnecessary