Subtle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðĩïļââïļ
subtle
[ËsĘt(É)l ]
Definitions
description
So delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe. Making use of clever and indirect methods to achieve something. Not immediately obvious; elusive.
Synonyms
delicate, elegant, nuanced, sophisticated, understated.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subtle |
Used when referring to something that is not immediately obvious or easily noticeable, often requiring keen attention to detail.
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| delicate |
Describes something that is fragile, gentle, or easily damaged. Often used to talk about physical objects, flavors, or situations requiring careful handling.
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| nuanced |
Used when discussing something that has subtle differences or complexities. Often applied to discussions, art, and literature.
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| sophisticated |
Describes something that is advanced, cultured, or complex. Often used for people, technology, and tastes.
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| understated |
Used when something is presented in a simple, low-key way, often implying it is attractive or impressive despite not being extravagant.
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| elegant |
Refers to something that is stylish, graceful, or luxurious in a refined way. Commonly used for fashion, decor, and behavior.
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Examples of usage
- It was a subtle difference, but she could sense it.
- He made a subtle joke about her new haircut.
- The subtle hints in his speech went unnoticed by most people.
- The artist used subtle shades of color to create a sense of depth in the painting.
- The movie's humor was so subtle that many viewers didn't catch all the jokes.
art
A very slight difference or distinction. A subtle flavor or quality.
Synonyms
hint, nuance, shade, touch, trace.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| subtle |
Used to describe something delicate or not immediately obvious. Can be positive or negative depending on the context.
|
| nuance |
Used to describe a very small difference in meaning, tone, or feeling. Often used in discussions about art, literature, or complex ideas.
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| shade |
Commonly used to describe variations in color. Can also refer to slight differences in meaning or opinion. Sometimes used negatively to imply criticism or sarcasm.
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| hint |
Used when suggesting something indirectly or giving a slight indication of something. Often used in communication to imply something without saying it directly.
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| touch |
Often used to describe a small amount of something or a slight influence or feature. Can be positive, especially when referring to personal or emotional aspects.
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| trace |
Used to describe a very small amount or sign of something remaining or present. Can have a neutral or sometimes negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The chef added a subtle touch of spice to the dish.
- She noticed a subtle change in his attitude towards her.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers often use subtle techniques, like foreshadowing, to hint at future events in a story without making them obvious.
- In poetry, a subtle choice of words can evoke deep emotions or create layered meanings.
- Classic literature is often filled with subtle character traits, revealing more about them through actions rather than direct statements.
Psychology
- Subtle cues in body language can reveal a person's true feelings, often more than words can.
- Research shows that subtle changes in tone can dramatically affect how a message is perceived.
- Our brains are wired to pick up on subtle social signals, helping us navigate complex social situations.
Art
- Subtle shades and tones are crucial in painting, creating depth and atmosphere without being overpowering.
- In visual arts, subtle contrasts can make a composition more engaging and sophisticated.
- Many famous artists, like Monet, mastered the art of subtlety, using soft brush strokes to evoke mood rather than precise details.
Pop Culture
- In film, subtle humor can often be funnier than more obvious jokes, relying on wit and timing.
- Certain music genres, like ambient or minimalist, often utilize subtle shifts to create a mood rather than overwhelming sound.
- Subtle references to culture or history in television shows can add layers of meaning that some viewers appreciate more than others.
Origin of 'subtle'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'subtilis', which means 'fine' or 'delicate'.
- It originally described cloth that was fine and thin, eventually expanding to describe ideas and sensations.
- In Middle English, it evolved to denote something that is intricate or hard to grasp.
The word 'subtle' comes from the Latin word 'subtilis', meaning fine or delicate. It has been used in English since the 14th century. Over time, 'subtle' has come to be associated with things that are understated, clever, or not immediately obvious. The term has evolved to describe a wide range of qualities, from flavors and scents to behaviors and hints.