Subdued Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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subdued
[səbˈdjuːd ]
Definitions
emotion
Quiet and rather reflective or depressed. Showing self-control and calmness in difficult situations.
Synonyms
calm, muted, quiet, restrained.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subdued |
Used to describe something that is lower in intensity, quieter, or less noticeable. Often implies a sense of reduced energy or brightness.
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| quiet |
Describes an absence or reduction of noise. Can also describe a person or place that is peaceful and without disturbance.
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| calm |
Refers to a state of tranquility and peace, often used to describe a person, atmosphere, or environment without stress or excitement.
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| muted |
Often used to describe colors, sounds, or emotions that are softened or less vibrant. Also can describe something that is understated or subtle.
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| restrained |
Describes behavior or emotions that are controlled or held back. Often implies a deliberate effort to not be excessive or emotional.
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Examples of usage
- She was in a subdued mood after receiving the bad news.
- He gave a subdued response to the criticism, maintaining his composure.
- The subdued atmosphere in the room made everyone whisper instead of talking loudly.
color
To reduce the intensity or strength of. To make something less intense, bright, or loud.
Synonyms
diminish, mellow, soften, tone down.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subdued |
Use this word to describe something that has been toned down or reduced in intensity, such as emotions, colors, or sounds. It often carries a connotation of restraint or quietness.
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| diminish |
This word implies a measurable decrease in size, number, importance, or intensity. It's often used in contexts where something is lessened or made to seem less significant.
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| soften |
This word is used when making something less harsh, severe, or rigid. It can apply to both physical objects and abstract concepts like attitudes or words.
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| tone down |
This phrase is generally used to suggest reducing the intensity or impact of something, often to make it more acceptable or less offensive.
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| mellow |
Mellow is used to describe something that has become softer, gentler, or more relaxed over time. It's often associated with maturity or relaxation.
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Examples of usage
- She used a special filter to subdued the colors in her photographs.
- The artist subdued the vibrant red with a touch of black to create a more subdued tone.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Subdued emotions can signify a state of calmness or depression, often impacting a person's energy levels and social interactions.
- People often express subdued feelings during moments of reflection or when coping with stress, showcasing a natural human response.
- This state can be a protective mechanism, where individuals moderate their emotional output in response to overwhelming situations.
Art and Literature
- In art, subdued colors create a calm and contemplative atmosphere, often inviting introspection.
- Writers use subdued tones in their narratives to convey complex feelings and deeper themes, allowing readers to engage more thoughtfully.
- Characters described as subdued often reflect internal struggles, making them relatable and realistic in storytelling.
Music
- Subdued music often features soft melodies and gentle rhythms, designed to evoke calm and relaxation in listeners.
- Genres like ambient or acoustic frequently utilize subdued elements, appealing to those seeking tranquility.
- Song structures can incorporate subdued verses that build into more intense choruses, contrasting dynamics for emotional impact.
Origin of 'subdued'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'subducere,' meaning 'to lead away', suggesting a sense of being kept down or controlled.
- It entered the English language in the 15th century, where it referred to being brought down from a higher state.
- Originally used in contexts relating to light or color intensity before expanding to describe emotions.
The word 'subdued' originated from the Latin word 'subducere', which means 'to withdraw or remove'. Over time, it evolved to mean 'to bring under control' or 'to make less intense'. The adjective form of 'subdued' started to be used in the 17th century, describing something quiet or controlled. The verb form, on the other hand, emerged in the 19th century in the context of reducing intensity, especially in colors.
See also: subduable, subjugation.