die  Diskretion

C1

Estimated CEFR level.

/dɪskʁeˈtsi̯oːn/

🤫 What does "die Diskretion" mean?

Die Diskretion (feminine noun) describes the quality or ability to keep confidential information secret and to act tactfully. It’s about Verschwiegenheit (confidentiality, secrecy) and Zurückhaltung (restraint), especially in delicate matters.

• Verschwiegenheit: The duty or willingness to remain silent about certain things.
• Taktgefühl: Sensitive, considerate behaviour when dealing with other people and situations.
• Unauffälligkeit: Sometimes also means inconspicuousness or restraint in actions or appearance.

🚨 Important: Diskretion is often expected in professional contexts (e.g., doctors, lawyers, consultants) but is also very important in private life.

🧐 Grammar of "die Diskretion" in Detail

The word Diskretion is a feminine noun. It is mostly used in the singular as it describes an abstract quality.

The plural form "die Diskretionen" is very rare and would refer to specific acts or instances of discrete behaviour, but it's hardly used in general language.

Example Sentences

• Die Diskretion ist in diesem Beruf oberstes Gebot. (Discretion is paramount in this profession.)
• Ich verlasse mich auf Ihre Diskretion. (I rely on your discretion.)
• Er handelte mit großer Diskretion. (He acted with great discretion.)
• Wir bitten um äußerste Diskretion in dieser Angelegenheit. (We ask for utmost discretion in this matter.)

🗣️ Usage in Context

"Diskretion" is used when talking about confidentiality, tact, and restraint.

• Professional Context: Doctors, therapists, lawyers, HR managers, consultants, etc., must be discrete (Verschwiegenheitspflicht - duty of confidentiality). "Absolute Diskretion zugesichert." (Absolute discretion assured.)
• Private Context: When entrusting someone with a secret, you expect Diskretion. "Kann ich auf deine Diskretion zählen?" (Can I count on your discretion?)
• Services: Hotels, banks, or exclusive shops often advertise Diskretion for their clients.
• Behaviour: One can "handle a matter with Diskretion," meaning tactfully and inconspicuously.

Distinction: While Verschwiegenheit primarily relates to keeping secrets, Diskretion often also includes tact and appropriate behaviour.

🧠 Mnemonics for "die Diskretion"

Article Mnemonic: Think of "Die Hard" action movies. Bruce Willis often has to act with Diskretion (discretion) to succeed. Associate the 'Die' with the article die.

Meaning Mnemonic: Diskretion sounds like the English word "discretion". Someone who acts with discretion doesn't blab secrets and behaves tactfully. Imagine a secret agent on a 'discreet' mission needing Diskretion! 🕵️‍♀️

↔️ Synonyms & Antonyms

⚠️ Be careful: Diskussion is a completely different word meaning discussion or debate.

😂 A Little Joke

German: Fragt der Chef den neuen Mitarbeiter: "Sind Sie auch diskret?"
Antwortet der Mitarbeiter: "Aber sicher, Chef! Ich kann sogar schweigen, wenn ich nichts weiß!"

English Translation: The boss asks the new employee: "Are you also discreet?"
The employee replies: "Absolutely, boss! I can even keep quiet when I don't know anything!"

📜 A Little Poem

German:
Ein Wort, gesprochen leis und sacht,
Ein Geheimnis, gut bewacht.
Die Zunge hüten, den Mund verschlossen,
Hat man Vertrauen dir gegossen.
Mit Taktgefühl und leisem Tritt,
Geht die Diskretion stets mit.

English Translation:
A word, spoken softly and gently,
A secret, well guarded.
To guard the tongue, keep the mouth closed,
If trust has been poured into you.
With tact and a quiet step,
Discretion always comes along.

🧩 Riddle Time

German:
Ich bin die Kunst, zu schweigen klug,
bewahre manches anvertraute Pfund.
Ich zeige Takt und Feingefühl,
handle oft im Stillen kühl.

Was bin ich? (... Die Diskretion)

English Translation:
I am the art of keeping wisely silent,
I keep many entrusted secrets safe.
I show tact and sensitivity,
Often acting coolly in silence.

What am I? (... Discretion / Die Diskretion)

✨ More Information

Word Origin (Etymology): The word Diskretion comes from the Latin word discretio, meaning "separation", "distinction", or "prudence". It is related to the adjective diskret (discreet).

Cultural Significance: In many cultures, especially in German-speaking countries, great importance is attached to Diskretion and privacy, both in business and private life.