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Subtleness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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subtleness

[ˈsʌtnəlnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

quality of being subtle

The subtleness of her humor was appreciated by only a few close friends. It refers to the ability to convey a message in a clever and indirect way, often requiring a keen sense of observation and understanding.

Synonyms

delicacy, nuance, sensitivity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
delicacy

Often refers to fragility or something requiring careful handling, but can also describe refined tastes or fine details.

  • The dancer moved with incredible delicacy
  • The old vase is a family delicacy that should be handled with care
nuance

Helps describe slight differences or variations in meaning, expression, or sound.

  • She understood the nuances of his argument
  • The actor captured the nuances of her character beautifully
sensitivity

Describes the quality of being easily affected by external influences or having great emotional responsiveness.

  • His sensitivity to criticism makes him a bit difficult to work with
  • The device's sensitivity allows it to detect even the smallest changes

Examples of usage

  • I admire the subtleness of his approach to problem-solving.
  • Her subtleness in handling difficult situations is truly remarkable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Literature

  • Artists and writers often use subtlety to convey complex emotions, allowing the audience to interpret the deeper meanings.
  • In modern poetry, subtleness is prized as it invites readers to engage more actively with the text, revealing layers of meaning.

Psychology

  • Understanding subtleness can help with social interactions, as detecting subtle cues can enhance emotional intelligence.
  • Studies show that people who can appreciate subtle forms of humor may have better interpersonal relationships, as they pick up on nuances more easily.

Communication

  • Subtle communication often involves body language and tone, which can change the meaning of words without directly stating it.
  • In negotiations, being subtle can prevent escalation and create an atmosphere of cooperation rather than confrontation.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss the subtleness of truth, arguing that what is not immediately obvious can lead to deeper understanding.
  • Eastern philosophies frequently emphasize the importance of subtle awareness, suggesting that enlightenment comes from recognizing the delicate balance of life.

Origin of 'subtleness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'subtilis', meaning 'fine' or 'refined', suggesting something that requires careful attention.
  • In Old French, the term 'subtil' referred to something that is clever or cunning, which adds to its meaning of nuance in communication.

The word 'subtleness' is derived from the adjective 'subtle,' which originated from the Latin word 'subtilis,' meaning 'fine' or 'thin.' The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the quality of being delicate or nuanced. Over time, 'subtleness' has come to represent the art of conveying complex ideas or emotions in a discreet and nuanced manner.

See also: subtleties, subtlety, subtly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,320, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.