All 4 Uses of
discreet
in
Jane Eyre
- A deal of people, Miss, are for trusting all to Providence; but I say Providence will not dispense with the means, though He often blesses them when they are used discreetly.†
p. 181.2 *discreetly = in a manner that is unlikely to attract attention or cause embarrassment
- "And," she added, "I am obliged to you for your valuable services and discreet conduct!†
p. 279.1
- I knew such an idea would shock, perhaps offend you; and you were so discreet, and so thoroughly modest and sensible, I hoped you might be trusted to protect yourself.†
p. 306.1
- I could never rest in communication with strong, discreet, and refined minds, whether male or female, till I had passed the outworks of conventional reserve, and crossed the threshold of confidence, and won a place by their heart's very hearthstone.†
p. 432.2
Definitions:
-
(1)
(discreet as in: discreet--not showy or gossipy) trustworthy with secrets or subtle (not attracting attention)This sense of discreet sometimes indicates that something is small (so as not to attract attention) as in "discreet earrings."
-
(2)
(discreet as in: discreet--not foolish) sensible and careful; possibly having good mannersThis sense of discreet is more commonly seen in classic literature than in modern writing. There is may also refer to having the judgment to exercise good manners.