a subtle effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle effect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an impact or influence that is not immediately obvious or is delicately nuanced. Example: "The artist's use of color creates a subtle effect that draws the viewer in without being overpowering."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Treatment of Rag1−/− with rabbit hyperimmune anti-vaccinia serum had a subtle effect on the morbidity/mortality of this strain, but it was effective in reduce viral titers in ovaries.

Plosone

It is found that the use of [CF3(CF2 8COO]2Mg·yH2O/Co II) acetate is as effective as the [CF3(CF2)8COO]2Co·xH2O and the fluorinated chain length used has a subtle effect on the catalytic rate measured.

Catalysis Today

It's a subtle effect but noticeable.

The New Yorker

You know they're there, but it's a subtle effect.

The New York Times - Food

On the other hand, he mused, the decision had a subtle effect.

The New York Times - Health

Eakins also had a special ability, as many people have noted, to convey the act of thinking, a subtle effect.

The New York Times - Arts

Some professional tasters believe that even good corks have a subtle effect on the taste of good wine.

The New York Times - Food

If you put on something that raises your game, it will have a subtle effect on how you feel, think, and behave".

The Guardian

It is a subtle effect, and viewers might have to have it pointed out to them, but it turns the work into a tribute.

The New York Times

"It was a subtle effect, but we found that the frequency of blushing predicted how well these guys were getting along at the end," Dr. Keltner said.

The New York Times - Health

While I know the text is supposed to be the most important thing, and I'm well aware that the biographical details of a writer's life should be incidental to the reading experience, the acknowledgement pages can have a subtle effect on the way I read a book.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a subtle effect", ensure that the context clarifies what is causing the effect and on what it is acting, even if the effect itself is not immediately obvious. This provides a clearer understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle effect" when the impact is actually significant or easily noticeable. Overemphasizing the subtlety can undermine the credibility of your statement and mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle effect" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a consequence or impact that is not immediately apparent or pronounced, requiring closer observation to detect. Ludwig confirms the phrase's validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

61%

News & Media

37%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a subtle effect" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that describes an impact or consequence that is not immediately obvious or pronounced. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans various contexts, particularly in scientific and news domains. While versatile, it's crucial to use this phrase accurately, avoiding overstatement of the subtlety when the effect is actually significant. Consider related phrases like "a minor impact" or "a slight influence" to refine your meaning. Remember, clarity in conveying the cause and recipient of the effect will enhance reader comprehension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minor impact

Replaces "effect" with "impact", suggesting a less noticeable consequence.

a slight influence

Substitutes "effect" with "influence", emphasizing a gentle or indirect power.

a delicate consequence

Replaces "subtle" with "delicate" and "effect" with "consequence", highlighting the fine and sensitive nature of the result.

a faint impression

Uses "impression" instead of "effect", focusing on the mental or emotional trace left behind.

a marginal change

Replaces "effect" with "change", indicating a small degree of alteration.

a nuanced outcome

Emphasizes the complexity and subtlety of the "outcome" rather than a direct "effect".

a subdued result

Highlights the understated nature of the "result".

a trace impact

Conveys an extremely minimal or barely perceptible influence.

an understated consequence

Focuses on the lack of overt emphasis of the resulting consequence.

a background influence

Suggests the effect is operating from a less obvious or prominent position.

FAQs

How can I use "a subtle effect" in a sentence?

You can use "a subtle effect" to describe an impact or change that isn't immediately obvious but still present. For instance, "The lighting had "a subtle effect" on the mood of the room."

What are some alternatives to "a subtle effect"?

You can use alternatives like "a minor impact", "a slight influence", or "a delicate consequence" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "subtle effect" or "significant effect"?

The choice depends on the magnitude of the impact you're describing. Use "subtle effect" when the impact is understated and "significant effect" when it's considerable.

What's the difference between "a subtle effect" and "a direct effect"?

"A subtle effect" is not immediately obvious and requires careful observation to detect. "A direct effect" is clear, immediate, and easily attributable to its cause.