Careful not to expose private information, attract needless notice, or cause embarrassment.
Reach for it when praising tactful restraint where trust or privacy matters
A discreet receptionist moved the conversation away from the crowded desk.
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| warm | |
| professional |
|
| formal | |
| literary |
playful
Fits when informal understatement and little attention are desired
Careful Low-key does not promise respect for sensitive information.
everyday
subtle
Fits when the action should avoid obvious attention
Careful Subtlety can be aesthetic or manipulative and says nothing about trust.
warm
Fits when protecting another person's feelings guides the choice
Careful Tact may soften public words without keeping anything private.
professional
confidential
Fits when information is formally restricted
Careful Confidential describes the material or duty, not a person's unobtrusive manner.
formal
circumspect
Fits when careful judgment weighs possible consequences
Careful Circumspection is broader and can look hesitant rather than discreet.
literary
reserved
Fits when a person avoids revealing feelings or opinions
Careful Reserve may come from shyness, not considerate judgment.
discreet inquiry
A discreet inquiry confirmed the need without naming the family.
discreet manner
His discreet manner reassured clients entering the advice center.
remain discreet
Please remain discreet until every applicant has been informed.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated
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