indiscreet
UK[ˌɪndɪˈskriːt]US[ˌɪndɪˈskriːt]
adj
revealing things that should be kept secret or private; lacking good judgment in speech or action.
adj
not careful or restrained; imprudent.
Morpheme Breakdown
in
discreet
in
not
discreet
prudent
Etymology
the word "indiscreet" is formed by adding the latin negative prefix "in-" to the adjective "discreet". "discreet" itself originates from the latin past participle discretus, meaning "separated" or "distinguished", derived from the verb discernere (to separate, to discern). the semantic evolution moved from the literal sense of "separated" to the figurative sense of "showing discernment or prudent reserve". therefore, "indiscreet" literally means "not discreet", directly describing a person or action that lacks prudence, reserve, or the ability to keep matters appropriately separate or private.
Analysis
Structure: in (not) + discreet (prudent)
- in: a latin prefix meaning "not" or "without". it functions as a negative particle.
- discreet: from middle english, ultimately from latin discretus (separated, distinct). it functions as the base adjective meaning "showing good judgment, especially in speech".
Examples
it was indiscreet of him to discuss confidential company matters in a public restaurant.
her indiscreet questions about their finances made everyone uncomfortable.
the diplomat was criticized for making indiscreet comments to the press.