adjective

subtle

/ˈsʌtəl/ · say it: SÜT·ul

so delicate as to be difficult to notice

In Sophisticated Everyday

In more detail

1. (adjective) not easily noticed or detected; slight and delicate

2. (adjective) clever and indirect; not obvious or straightforward

Examples

1. There is a subtle difference between the two colors that most people won't notice.
2. The author uses subtle humor throughout the novel that makes you smile rather than laugh out loud.

How to use subtle

Subtle describes something that is not immediately apparent or that requires careful attention to perceive. It carries positive connotations of sophistication and restraint, whether describing sensory experiences (a subtle flavor), communication (a subtle suggestion), or intellectual qualities (subtle reasoning). It contrasts with obvious or heavy-handed approaches.

Common phrases

subtle difference
subtle shift
subtle hint
subtle approach
subtle humor
subtle distinctions

Synonyms

delicate · faint · understated · nuanced · indirect

Opposites

obvious · blatant · direct

Word family

subtly (adverb) · subtlety (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse subtle with subtle spelling and mispronounce it as 'sub-TUL' rather than the correct 'SUB-tul', or fail to recognize that the 'b' is pronounced silently.

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