a subtle revision of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle revision of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a minor change or adjustment made to a text, idea, or concept. Example: "The author made a subtle revision of the original manuscript to enhance clarity and flow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Camaro's sheet metal is an all-new design, while the Mustang is a subtle revision of the car introduced in 2005.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

America's obsession with victory at all costs was undergoing a subtle revision; the cultural fixation was less on winning than on not losing.

The New Yorker

The difference when using these techniques is not a subtle change, but a drastic revision of what the web can do.

TechCrunch

Woodward's writings represented an extremely subtle and thoughtful revision of the history of the American South.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Snap a subtle photo of him.

The New York Times

It's a subtle bit of filmmaking.

The New Yorker

A subtle undertone of sulphur.

The Guardian - Film

Perhaps it's a subtle admission of a recent chastening.

The New Yorker

Madoff fostered a subtle climate of fear among investors.

The New Yorker

It was a subtle acknowledgment of his reclusive habits.

The New York Times - Sports

All this carried a subtle note of demagoguery.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a subtle revision of" when you want to emphasize that changes made are minor and not immediately obvious. This phrase is suitable when describing modifications to texts, plans, or designs where the essence remains largely unchanged.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle revision of" when the changes are actually significant or transformative. This phrase downplays the extent of the modification, and using it in the wrong context can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle revision of" functions as a noun phrase that describes an action or process of making minor changes. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is suitable when describing slight modifications to existing ideas, texts, or designs.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a subtle revision of" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, indicating a minor change or adjustment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki contexts, implying a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that the changes you're describing are genuinely subtle and not significant overhauls. Consider alternatives like "a slight modification to" or "a minor adjustment to" for nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight modification to

Indicates a small change, similar to a subtle revision, but emphasizes the act of modifying.

a minor adjustment to

Focuses on the adjustment aspect, highlighting that the change is small and corrective.

a delicate alteration of

Emphasizes the careful and precise nature of the change, suggesting a light touch.

a nuanced modification to

Highlights the subtle differences brought about by the change, focusing on nuance.

a gentle refinement of

Suggests an improvement through careful and minor adjustments, emphasizing refinement.

a marginal adjustment to

Implies the adjustment is so small that it's barely noticeable.

a low-key alteration of

Stresses the understated nature of the change, suggesting it's not ostentatious.

a discreet change to

Emphasizes that the change was done without attracting attention, focusing on discretion.

a soft adaptation of

Suggests a gentle and flexible change, adapting something in a mild way.

a measured modification of

Implies the change was carefully considered and controlled, focusing on precision.

FAQs

How can I use "a subtle revision of" in a sentence?

You might say, "The new edition includes "a subtle revision of" the introduction to better reflect current research."

What are some alternatives to "a subtle revision of"?

Alternatives include "a slight modification to", "a minor adjustment to", or "a delicate alteration of".

Is it appropriate to use "a subtle revision of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a subtle revision of" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing nuanced changes or improvements in academic or professional contexts.

What is the difference between "a subtle revision of" and "a complete overhaul of"?

"A subtle revision of" implies minor changes, while "a complete overhaul of" suggests a thorough and extensive transformation.