C1adjective 2K

Subtle

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈsʌtl/","/ˈsʌtələ(r)/","/ˈsʌtəlɪst/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈsʌtl/","/ˈsʌtələr/","/ˈsʌtəlɪst/"]/

Meaning of Subtle

not very obvious or easy to notice

In simple words: Not obvious or easy to notice.

Subtle in a sentence

• The artist used subtle colors to create a calming effect in the painting.
• She gave a subtle smile that suggested she knew more than she was saying.
• There was a subtle difference between the two proposals that only experts could notice.
• His subtle approach to solving the problem avoided upsetting anyone involved.
• The flavor of the dish was subtle, with hints of herbs rather than strong spices.

How to use Subtle

Use 'subtle' when describing things that are not clear or direct. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts but avoid it in simplistic conversations.

Grammar pattern

subtle + object

Memory hint

Think of how a finely tuned instrument produces subtle sounds — soft and intricate.

Related words

Collocations with Subtle

• be
• seem
• become
• extremely
• fairly
• very
• be
• seem
• become
• extremely
• fairly
• very

Synonyms for Subtle

• faint
• delicate
• nuanced
• slight
• indirect

Opposites of Subtle

• obvious
• blatant
• glaring

Common mistakes with Subtle

• Confused with 'suttle', which is incorrect spelling.
• Using 'subtle' for obvious things.
• Overusing 'subtle' instead of simpler words like 'small' or 'slight'.

Frequently asked questions about Subtle

What does Subtle mean?

Not obvious or easy to notice.

What is the definition of Subtle?

not very obvious or easy to notice

How do you use Subtle in a sentence?

The artist used subtle colors to create a calming effect in the painting.

Can you give another example of Subtle?

She gave a subtle smile that suggested she knew more than she was saying.

What are synonyms for Subtle?

Common alternatives include faint, delicate, nuanced, slight, indirect.

What is the opposite of Subtle?

Opposite meanings include obvious, blatant, glaring.

What words go with Subtle?

It commonly pairs with be, seem, become, extremely, fairly, very, be, seem, become, extremely, fairly, very.

What are common mistakes when using Subtle?

Confused with 'suttle', which is incorrect spelling. Using 'subtle' for obvious things. Overusing 'subtle' instead of simpler words like 'small' or 'slight'.

How do you pronounce Subtle?

US: /["/ˈsʌtl/","/ˈsʌtələr/","/ˈsʌtəlɪst/"]/, UK: /["/ˈsʌtl/","/ˈsʌtələ(r)/","/ˈsʌtəlɪst/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Subtle?

Use 'subtle' when describing things that are not clear or direct. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts but avoid it in simplistic conversations.

What CEFR level is Subtle?

"Subtle" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.