Descrição vs. Discrição: Description or Discretion?
Descrição explains what something is like; discrição means tact, privacy, or restraint.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 14, 2026
The short answer
Descrição with e refers to the act or result of describing a person, place, object, or event. It can be a written description, a spoken account, or the information field on a form. The related verb is descrever.
Use descrição for an account of something
Use descrição when you are explaining characteristics or details. Adding a subject after de makes the topic explicit: descrição do produto, descrição da cena.
A descrição do apartamento menciona uma varanda grande.
The apartment description mentions a large balcony.
Faça uma descrição breve do lugar.
Write a brief description of the place.
A testemunha deu uma descrição da roupa.
The witness gave a description of the clothing.
Use discrição for tact and privacy
Discrição with i means discretion, tact, or a preference for privacy. A discreet person handles information carefully or avoids drawing unnecessary attention. The related adjective is discreto or discreta.
A memory cue is that discrição concerns discretion in how one acts; descrição is connected to describing something. The words are similar in sound but have different meanings.
Peço discrição ao tratar desse assunto.
I ask for discretion when handling this matter.
Ela resolveu o problema com discrição.
She handled the problem discreetly.
O relatório contém uma descrição detalhada dos fatos.
The report contains a detailed description of the facts.
Put it into practice
Descrição is an account of details; discrição is tact, restraint, or privacy.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I ask for discretion when handling this matter”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
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