Translation guide
The English word 'discreet' describes being careful and circumspect in behavior or speech to avoid causing offense or attracting attention, especially by keeping things confidential. In Japanese, expressing this concept often involves choosing words and phrases that emphasize modesty, restraint, and consideration for others' privacy.
Describing a person or action that is tactful, prudent, and respects confidentiality.
He is a very discreet person.
A discreet response is necessary.
Means 'modest' or 'reserved'. It describes someone who doesn't draw attention to themselves, often by being quiet or restrained in behavior. It can also refer to things that are understated.
She has a discreet personality.
Discreet attire is preferable.
Literally 'mouth is hard', this phrase means 'tight-lipped' or 'able to keep a secret'. It specifically refers to a person who can be trusted with confidential information.
He's discreet, so I feel safe.
Means 'confidential' or 'private'. It is often used in formal contexts to describe matters that should be kept secret.
I have a discreet matter to discuss.
An adverb meaning 'quietly' or 'stealthily'. It can describe doing something discreetly to avoid notice, such as leaving a place or handling a situation.
He discreetly left the room.
Describing something that is subtle, understated, or not flashy.
Means 'plain' or 'sober'. It describes something that is not showy or conspicuous, often in a positive sense of being tastefully simple.
I like discreet designs.
She is wearing discreetly colored clothes.
Literally 'not standing out', this adjective describes something that is inconspicuous or blends in. It can be used for people, objects, or actions.
Means 'casual' or 'nonchalant', but often implies doing something in a way that doesn't seem deliberate or obvious. It can describe a discreet hint or gesture.
慎重な emphasizes carefulness and prudence, often in decision-making or handling information. 控えめな emphasizes modesty and restraint in behavior or appearance. Use 慎重な for someone who thinks before acting, and 控えめな for someone who doesn't boast or draw attention.
discreet driving (careful)
discreet attitude (modest)
There is no single Japanese word that covers all nuances of 'discreet'. Avoid directly translating it as 慎重な in every context; for example, 'discreet packaging' is better rendered as 目立たない包装 rather than 慎重な包装, which would sound odd.
Please put it in a discreet place.
さりげない助言をくれた。
He gave me a discreet hint.