Discretionally

Adverb indicating that an action or decision is left to the individual's or group's judgment and free will; not based on specific rules or mandatory requirements. It implies the ability to exercise prudence, choose from available options, and make considered choices. Decisions made discretionally are typically guided by principles, values, and situational analysis, rather than dictated by rigid procedures. The extent of the power or latitude is often defined by the context, such as legal statutes, company policies, or social norms. The exercise of discretion often carries an element of responsibility and accountability for the consequences of the decisions made, and it may be subject to review or challenge within specified frameworks.

Discretionally meaning with examples

• The manager decided discretionally to allow the employee to work from home, based on their strong performance and the nature of their tasks. This was not a company-wide policy, but a judgment call. They weighed the benefits and potential drawbacks, arriving at what they believed was the best outcome.
• The judge ruled discretionally on the sentence length, considering the mitigating circumstances presented during the trial. They considered the defendant's remorse, criminal history, and the impact on the victim, applying fairness and due process in their judgement.
• Funding for the community arts program was allocated discretionally by the council, allowing for flexible support based on evolving needs and proposals. This was not a set budget item, and required specific justification for the funding allocation, with consideration of community impact.
• The teacher graded essays discretionally, taking into account not only grammar and spelling, but also creativity, critical thinking, and overall argument strength. They had the flexibility to assess and reward individual qualities, instead of relying on rigid formulaic methods.
• The CEO was granted the power to use funds discretionally for emergency repairs, which allowed for swift action in the event of unexpected equipment breakdowns. This ability to use funds without set approval was a demonstration of trust, with the expectation of accountability for use of company resources.