ABSOLUTE DISCRETION Meaning and
Definition
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Absolute discretion refers to the unrestricted power or authority to make decisions or act without any limitations or constraints. It denotes full and complete autonomy in decision-making, without being subject to outside influence, regulations, or guidelines. This term is commonly used in legal contexts to describe the authority granted to individuals or entities, such as judges, administrators, or governing bodies, to exercise their judgment without any external interference.
When someone is said to have absolute discretion, it means that they possess the ultimate control and freedom to make choices or determinations based on their individual evaluation of the circumstances, facts, and applicable laws. Absolute discretion implies that there are no specific criteria or guidelines that must be followed and the decision-maker has complete authority to act according to their own understanding and interpretation.
However, it should be noted that the exercise of absolute discretion does not absolve the decision-maker from their obligation to act responsibly and fairly. It is incumbent upon the individual exercising their absolute discretion to weigh the relevant factors, consider all relevant information, and make decisions that are reasonable, just, and in line with the principles of justice or fairness.
Overall, absolute discretion signifies unparalleled decision-making authority, allowing individuals or entities to exercise their judgment without being limited or directed by any external factors, guidelines, or regulations.
Etymology of ABSOLUTE DISCRETION
The word "absolute" originates from the Latin word "absolutus", which is the past participle of "absolvere". "Absolvere" is a combination of the prefix "ab-" meaning "away" and "solvere" meaning "to loosen" or "to set free". Over time, "absolutus" came to mean "loosened" or "disconnected" from something, and then it evolved to refer to something that is free from any restriction or limitation.
The word "discretion" comes from the Old French term "discrecion", which is derived from the Latin word "discretio". "Discretio" is the noun form of the verb "discrepare", meaning "to separate" or "to distinguish". In Latin, "discretio" referred to the act of distinguishing and making decisions based on sound judgment.
