“Discretion”—the ability to apply these other virtues to everyday living.

More than one word is translated “discretion,” but I am only dealing with a word that appears four times in Proverbs. Discretion NEVER appears alone; it is always accompanied by other virtues. Proverbs 1:1-4 shows that wisdom and instruction will give you understanding, and these will give you prudence, knowledge, and discretion.

When you have these other virtues, discretion will preserve you. 2:11  An important point here is that possessing these virtues will keep you from making a wreck out of your life.

Discretion, combined with wisdom, will give you physical safety  3:21 ff

Along with other virtues, discretion will keep you from immorality 5:1-2ff