discretion etymology

Etymology:

The word "discretion" comes from the Middle English word "discrecioun," which in turn comes from the Old French word "discrecion," meaning "power to discern." This is derived from the Latin word "discernere," meaning "to separate, distinguish, or discern."

Meaning:

Discretion refers to the ability to make sound judgments or decisions based on one's own discretion and experience. It involves the exercise of personal judgment and discretion in assessing situations and making choices.

Origin:

The concept of discretion has its roots in ancient Greek philosophy. The Greek philosopher Plato believed that reason and judgment should guide human actions and that individuals should exercise prudence and discretion in their decisions. This idea was later adopted by Roman philosophers such as Cicero, who emphasized the importance of discernment and careful consideration in decision-making.

In the Middle Ages, the concept of discretion was closely associated with the idea of "natural law," which was believed to provide universal principles that should guide human behavior. According to Thomas Aquinas, one of the key medieval theologians, discretion is a virtue that allows individuals to discern the right course of action in particular situations.

During the Renaissance, the concept of discretion became increasingly important in the fields of law and politics. It was believed that judges and rulers should exercise discretion in interpreting and applying laws to specific cases. This idea was later enshrined in the common law system, where judges are given broad discretion to make decisions based on their understanding of the law and the facts of the case.

discretion relate terms

  • discern

    Etymology Origin Latin Root Word Discernere Meaning To see apart to distinguish Me

  • discerning

    Etymology The word discerning comes from the Latin word discernere which means to s

  • discretionary

    Etymology Latin discretus separated distinct Meaning Adjective Exercised or

  • discretion

    Etymology The word discretion comes from the Middle English word discrecioun which

  • indiscretion

    Etymology Indiscretion originates from the Late Middle English word indiscrecioun me

  • discretion

    Etymology The word discretion comes from the Middle English word discrecioun which

  • circumspection

    Etymology Latin circumspectus circum around spectus look Meaning Car

  • Prudence

    Etymology Latin Prudentia Meaning Foresight Wisdom Common sense Caution Discretion

  • discernment

    Etymology Old French discernement Latin discernere to separate distinguish Proto

  • intemperance

    Etymology The word intemperance is derived from the Latin word intemperantia which

  • temperance

    Etymology The word temperance comes from the Latin word temperantia which means mod

  • arbitration

    Etymology The term arbitration comes from the Latin word arbitratio which means jud

  • self determination

    Etymology The word self determination has its origins in the Latin phrase self determi

  • liberty

    Etymology From Middle English libertee from Old French liberté ultimately from Latin

  • taste

    Etymology Middle English tasten from Old English tæstan Proto Germanic tastōną