Translation guide
The concept of discretion in Japanese is expressed through various words and phrases that emphasize prudence, careful judgment, and the ability to keep secrets. The most common equivalent is 慎重 (shinchou), meaning 'carefulness' or 'prudence'. Other important terms include 裁量 (sairyou) for 'discretionary power', 口が堅い (kuchi ga katai) for 'being discreet with secrets', and 分別 (funbetsu) for 'good judgment'. The choice depends on whether you mean careful action, freedom to decide, or trustworthiness with information.
Acting with caution to avoid risks or mistakes; being circumspect.
The most direct and common translation for 'discretion' in the sense of careful, prudent behavior. Used as a noun or na-adjective.
彼は慎重に行動した。
He acted with discretion.
慎重な判断が必要だ。
Discreet judgment is necessary.
Literally 'not to stir things up'. Used when someone handles a situation discreetly to avoid conflict or trouble.
彼女は事を荒立てずに問題を解決した。
She resolved the issue with discretion, without making a fuss.
The authority or freedom to make decisions based on one's own judgment.
Refers to discretionary power or the scope of one's authority to decide. Common in legal, business, and administrative contexts.
その判断はあなたの裁量に任せます。
I'll leave that decision to your discretion.
裁量権を与えられた。
I was given discretionary authority.
Means 'optional' or 'at one's discretion'. Often used in forms or instructions to indicate something is not mandatory.
A polite phrase meaning 'I leave it up to you' or 'I entrust it to your discretion'. Commonly used in service contexts.
料理はシェフにお任せします。
I'll leave the meal to the chef's discretion.
Being trustworthy and not revealing confidential information.
Literally 'mouth is hard', meaning someone is tight-lipped and can keep secrets. A very common and natural expression.
彼は口が堅いから安心して話せる。
He's discreet, so I can talk to him without worry.
A formal compound meaning 'strict confidentiality'. Used in professional or official settings.
この件は秘密厳守でお願いします。
Please handle this matter with discretion (strict confidentiality).
A set phrase meaning 'do not tell others' or 'keep it to yourself'. Often used as a warning or request for secrecy.
The quality of having sound judgment, especially in social situations; knowing what is appropriate.
Refers to discretion as good sense, prudence, and the ability to distinguish right from wrong. Often used for mature judgment.
分別のある行動をしなさい。
Act with discretion (good sense).
彼は分別がある。
He has discretion (good judgment).
Means 'prudence' or 'thoughtfulness'. Slightly more formal and often used in written language.
思慮深い決断だった。
It was a discreet (prudent) decision.
慎重 (shinchou) focuses on carefulness and avoiding mistakes, while 分別 (funbetsu) emphasizes mature judgment and knowing right from wrong. Use 慎重 for cautious actions, and 分別 for wisdom and good sense.
The English word 'discretion' covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. Avoid directly translating 'discretion' as a single word; instead, choose the term that matches the specific meaning you intend.
君子危うきに近寄らず。
Discretion is the better part of valor.
A proverb meaning 'A wise man keeps away from danger', equivalent to the idea of discretion as caution.
Means 'cautious' or 'wary', emphasizing vigilance against potential danger. Often used for personal safety or security.
用心深い人だから、秘密を漏らさない。
He's a discreet person, so he won't reveal secrets.
Participation is at your discretion.
この話は他言無用で頼む。
I'm telling you this in strict confidence (lit. 'no telling others').