a more subtle understanding

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a more subtle understanding" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a deeper or more nuanced comprehension of a topic or concept. Example: "After several discussions, we reached a more subtle understanding of the complexities involved in the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

She's nodding and smiling at you, but, psh, she and I have a more subtle understanding.

The New York Times

As neuroeconomic and brain imaging tools shed more light on ADHD, a more subtle understanding of its symptomatology will also be vital for developing new treatments.

The Guardian

(For the record, neither is quite right: As described in the piece, the Dalai Lama has a more subtle understanding of the role of the press and power than either his fans or critics usually expect).

The New Yorker

Some in Congress say that the loss of momentum to regulate technologies like cookies can be attributed to a more subtle understanding of the interplay of privacy and technology.

The New York Times

This may seem like a minor lexical adjustment, and yet, given a context in which the U.S. President wields a profoundly limited vocabulary, a more subtle understanding of the ways in which language shapes understanding offers welcome insight.

The New Yorker

Her work triggered a storm of controversy but also provoked research that yielded a more subtle understanding of the impossible task these leaders faced in confronting the Nazis' overwhelming power and fervent, disciplined commitment to annihilate the Jewish people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But there was also a more subtle reason.

The Economist

As a research discipline, chemistry has itself evolved over the last few decades to focus its metaphorical microscope on both far larger and more complex molecular systems than previously attempted, as well as uncovering a far more subtle understanding of the quantum mechanical underpinnings of even the smallest of molecules.

Journal of Cheminformatics

The Starting Strong review has avoided uncritical adoption of these images, offering instead a very different and more subtle understanding of what early childhood services might be.

International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy

This wider, deeper and more subtle understanding of what has moulded British identity throughout history would naturally help all people in this society to open up towards each other, including towards Muslims, and to understand that they are not so very different or strange when judged by their values and hopes.

The Guardian

Cyrus's about-face is so sharp, it obliterates any chance for a more subtle and multitudinous understanding of personal progress.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to convey a sophisticated grasp of a complex issue, use "a more subtle understanding" to emphasize the nuanced nature of the comprehension.

Common error

Avoid using "a more subtle understanding" when the context requires a simpler, more direct explanation. Ensure the complexity justifies the nuanced language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a more subtle understanding" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the possession or attainment of a nuanced and refined comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable structure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a more subtle understanding" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate a refined or nuanced comprehension. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and examples showcase its prevalence in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias. When using the phrase, ensure that the context warrants a nuanced explanation rather than a more direct one. Alternatives include "a deeper appreciation", "a nuanced perspective", and "a keener insight". These alternatives offer slight variations in meaning to suit specific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a keener insight

Implies a sharper and more penetrating understanding.

a nuanced perspective

Highlights the intricate and detailed nature of the viewpoint.

a sophisticated interpretation

Highlights the complex and advanced nature of the understanding.

a more refined perception

Suggests an enhanced ability to discern and interpret.

a deeper appreciation

Emphasizes a more profound emotional or aesthetic recognition.

a profound awareness

Conveys a deep and significant level of consciousness.

an advanced awareness

Indicates superior knowledge.

a finer grasp

Focuses on a more delicate and precise hold on the concept.

a delicate recognition

Highlights an improved sensitivity.

an enlightened comprehension

Indicates a superior and more informed understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a more subtle understanding" in a sentence?

You can use "a more subtle understanding" to describe a nuanced comprehension of a topic, such as, "Through research, she developed "a more subtle understanding" of the historical context."

What are some alternatives to "a more subtle understanding"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a deeper appreciation", "a nuanced perspective", or "a keener insight", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always better to have "a more subtle understanding"?

Not necessarily. Sometimes a simpler, more direct understanding is more appropriate. "A more subtle understanding" is valuable when dealing with complex or nuanced issues.

What's the difference between "a subtle understanding" and "a deep understanding"?

"A subtle understanding" implies nuance and attention to detail, while "a deep understanding" suggests a comprehensive and thorough knowledge. They are similar, but emphasize different aspects of comprehension.