Corrections Officer Entrance (CJBAT) Practice Exam

Which term is synonymous with "discretion"?

1. Indiscretion

2. Choice

3. Obligation

4. Compulsion

The correct answer is: Choice

The correct choice is "choice" because the term "discretion" refers to the freedom or power to make decisions based on one's judgment. In various contexts, discretion implies having the ability to choose among different options or courses of action. This aligns closely with the idea of making a choice where one can exercise their judgment without being bound by strict rules or obligations. While other terms may seem related, they do not capture the essence of discretion effectively. The term "indiscretion," for instance, typically denotes a lack of good judgment or care in decision-making, which contrasts with the thoughtful decision-making implied by discretion. "Obligation" refers to a duty or commitment to act in a certain way, and "compulsion" indicates a force that makes one do something, both of which restrict personal choice and agency rather than reflecting the autonomy suggested by discretion.