Discreetly

adv.thoughtful, kindprofessional

What it means

With tactful restraint that protects privacy or avoids drawing attention.

Reach for it when describing a considerate action meant to remain unobtrusive

The usher discreetly offered a nearer seat when he noticed the walking stick.

everyday
quietly
when low sound or little fuss is the point
not when Quiet action may still be obvious or careless with private facts.
warm
tactfully
when sparing someone's feelings matters most
not when Tact does not necessarily keep the exchange unnoticed.
professional
privately
when others must be excluded from the communication
not when A private meeting can be conducted conspicuously.
formal
confidentially
when a duty of secrecy governs the exchange
not when Confidentially is too narrow for an unobtrusive practical kindness.
literary
subtly
when a light, barely noticed effect is desired
not when Subtle action may conceal intent for reasons unrelated to respect.

ask discreetly
The nurse knew how to ask discreetly about support at home.
discreetly placed
A water bowl was discreetly placed beside the stage steps.
discreetly handled
The mistaken invoice was discreetly handled before the reception began.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.