discreet
/dɪˈskɹiːt/
Group 14Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions; unobtrusive GRE
Example in Context
The aide made discreet inquiries about the ambassador's availability, careful not to alert the press to the developing situation.
Synonyms
carefultactfulsubtle
Etymology
Separating oneself from attention by being careful and unobtrusive.
- dis- (Latin) — apart
- cretus (Latin) — to separate
Memory Aid
🚶♂️Sounds like “this street”
A ninja quietly walking down THIS STREET, being so DISCREET nobody even notices!
Visual Association
🤫A stealthy figure tiptoeing through a crowded room without attracting a single glance.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Confusable Pairs
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “discreet” mean on the GRE?
discreet (adjective) means “Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions; unobtrusive”. The aide made discreet inquiries about the ambassador's availability, careful not to alert the press to the developing situation.
How to remember “discreet” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “discreet” sounds like “this street”. A ninja quietly walking down THIS STREET, being so DISCREET nobody even notices!
What are synonyms for “discreet”?
Common synonyms: careful, tactful, subtle.