Discretion

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Definition

But they that observe their differences, and dissimilitudes, which is called distinguishing, and discerning, and judging between thing and thing, in case such discerning be not easy, are said to have a good judgement: and particularly in matter of conversation and business, wherein times, places, and persons are to be discerned, this virtue is called discretion. The former, that is, Fancy, without the help of Judgement, is not commended as a Vertue: the latter which is judgement, and discretion, is commended for itself, without the help of fancy.

Hobbes, Lev VIII 3

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Proposition

Indiscretion is always taken as a sign of lack of wit.

And in any discourse whatsoever, if the defect of discretion be apparent, how extravagant soever the fancy be, the whole discourse will be taken for a sign of want of wit; and so will it never when the discretion is manifest, though the fancy be never so ordinary.

Hobbes, Lev VIII 9