discretionary

American  

[dih-skresh-uh-ner-ee] / dɪˈskrɛʃ əˌnɛr i /

adjective

1. subject or left to one's own discretion.

2. for any use or purpose one chooses; not earmarked for a particular purpose.

   discretionary income; a discretionary fund.

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discretionary British  

/ -ənrɪ, dɪˈskrɛʃənərɪ /

adjective

1. having or using the ability to decide at one's own discretion

   discretionary powers

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Other Word Forms

• discretionarily adverb
• nondiscretionary adjective

Etymology

Origin of discretionary

First recorded in 1690–1700; discretion + -ary

Example Sentences

Higher energy costs also erode consumer spending power as more cash spent on gas and electricity leaves less room for discretionary purchases.

From Barron's

Barclays has looked at sectors, and found that in the year following major geopolitical risk spikes, discretionary, tech, materials, and utilities have done well, while telecom, energy, and industrials have lagged behind.

From Barron's

Barclays has looked at sectors, and found that in the year following major geopolitical risk spikes, discretionary, tech, materials, and utilities have done well, while telecom, energy, and industrials have lagged behind.

From Barron's

As inflation grew, many consumers also pulled back on buying discretionary items, including the throw pillows, clothing and other splurges Target is known for, according to the Journal.

From The Wall Street Journal

Consumer-staples stocks, which should have solid sales whatever the economy does, were hit almost as much as economically sensitive consumer discretionary in the morning selloff.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• unrestricted