C1adjectiveformalmoneybusiness
US/dɪˈskreʃ.ə.ner.i/
UK/dɪˈskreʃ.ən.ər.i/
decided by a person or group as they choose, not fixed by a rule
In context
Managers have discretionary power to approve small expenses without a signature.
After paying rent and bills, she has little discretionary income left.
The bonus is discretionary, so the company is not required to pay it.
Words that go with discretionary
adjective + noun
- discretionary spendingDiscretionary spending falls when prices rise.
- discretionary incomeTeenagers have more discretionary income than before.
- discretionary powerThe judge has discretionary power over the sentence.
- discretionary budgetOur discretionary budget was cut this year.
- discretionary bonusA discretionary bonus depends on company profit.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
discretion spendingCorrect: discretionary spending