discretion
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discretion
The ability and obligation to keep confidential information to oneself and act tactfully; confidentiality.
In meinem Beruf als Personalberater ist absolute Diskretion unerlässlich.
In my profession as a personnel consultant, absolute discretion is essential.
'Diskretion' (discretion) is the noun related to the adjective 'diskret' (discreet). If a person is 'diskret' (discreet), then they possess the quality of 'Diskretion' (discretion). This connection helps you understand both words.
Ein guter Freund ist diskret und bewahrt Geheimnisse für sich.
A good friend is discreet and keeps secrets to themselves.
In the meaning 'Verschwiegenheit' (confidentiality), 'Diskretion' (discretion) is often combined with certain verbs: 'Diskretion wahren' (to maintain discretion), 'um Diskretion bitten' (to ask for discretion), or 'Diskretion garantieren' (to guarantee discretion).
Der Arzt bat seine Mitarbeiter, bei Patientendaten höchste Diskretion zu wahren.
The doctor asked his staff to maintain the utmost discretion with patient data.
In the meaning 'Ermessensspielraum' (room for discretion), the fixed expression 'in jemandes Diskretion liegen' (to be at someone's discretion) is usually used. This means that the person has the freedom to decide for themselves.
Es liegt in der Diskretion des Komitees, die Regeln anzupassen.
It is at the committee's discretion to adapt the rules.
privacy
'Privatsphäre' and 'Diskretion' are connected when it comes to personal or confidential matters. 'Privatsphäre' is the area of a person's life that others should respect. 'Diskretion' is more about the behavior of other people: they keep information to themselves and handle it carefully. So you protect a person's privacy through discretion. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with keeping things secret and with personal boundaries. In practical terms: 'Privatsphäre' describes the protected area, while 'Diskretion' describes consideration and confidentiality.
Beim Beratungstermin bat der Kunde um Diskretion.
During the consultation appointment, the customer asked for discretion.
Wegen ihrer Privatsphäre möchte die Familie keine Fotos im Internet sehen.
Because of their privacy, the family does not want to see any photos online.