Indiscretion: meaning, definitions and examples

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indiscretion

 

[ ˌɪndɪˈskrɛʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

behavior, lack of caution

Indiscretion refers to a lack of judgment or care in dealing with something, particularly regarding sensitive matters. It often suggests a breach of etiquette or a failure to act responsibly.

Synonyms

carelessness, foolishness, impropriety, irresponsibility

Examples of usage

  • Her indiscretion at the party caused a scandal.
  • He spoke with indiscretion about his boss's private affairs.
  • The politician's indiscretion led to public outrage.

Translations

Translations of the word "indiscretion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indiscrição

🇮🇳 अविवेक

🇩🇪 Indiskretion

🇮🇩 ketidakhati-hatian

🇺🇦 необачність

🇵🇱 indyskretność

🇯🇵 不注意

🇫🇷 indiscrétion

🇪🇸 indiscreción

🇹🇷 dikkatsizlik

🇰🇷 경솔함

🇸🇦 عدم التقدير

🇨🇿 nediskrétnost

🇸🇰 nediskrétnosť

🇨🇳 不谨慎

🇸🇮 indiskretnost

🇮🇸 óvarku

🇰🇿 ескертусіздік

🇬🇪 არაკეთილმოსურნეობა

🇦🇿 dikkatsizlik

🇲🇽 indiscreción

Word origin

The word 'indiscretion' finds its roots in the Latin term 'indiscretio', which combines 'in-' meaning 'not' with 'discretio', meaning 'distinction' or 'separation'. This etymology underlines the notion of failing to distinguish or judge wisely. The term emerged into the English language in the late 14th century, representing acts that lack careful discernment or prudence. Historically, it has been associated with breaches of trust, social faux pas, or carelessly revealing sensitive information. Over time, it has taken on connotations related to personal vices and ethical breaches, indicating a lapse in the expected moral judgment. 'Indiscretion' is often invoked in discussions surrounding gossip, scandal, and behavior deemed inappropriate in social and professional contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,025, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.