C1adjective2K

Subtle

UK /["/ˈsʌtl/","/ˈsʌtələ(r)/","/ˈsʌtəlɪst/"]/US /["/ˈsʌtl/","/ˈsʌtələr/","/ˈsʌtəlɪst/"]/

Definition

not very obvious or easy to notice

In simple words: Not obvious or easy to notice.

Examples

  • 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.

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

  • faint
  • delicate
  • nuanced
  • slight
  • indirect

Antonyms

  • obvious
  • blatant
  • glaring

Common mistakes

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