discretion

 
Pronunciation: /dɪˈskrɛʃ(ə)n/

noun

[mass noun]
  • 1the quality of behaving or speaking in such a way as to avoid causing offence or revealing confidential information: she knew she could rely on his discretion I’ll be the soul of discretion
  • 2the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation: local authorities should use their discretion in setting the charges honorary fellowships may be awarded at the discretion of the council

Phrases

discretion is the better part of valour

proverb it’s better to avoid a dangerous situation than to confront it.

Origin:

Middle English (in the sense 'discernment'): via Old French from Latin discretio(n-) 'separation' (in late Latin 'discernment'), from discernere (see discern)