a subtle sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle sense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a nuanced or delicate feeling or perception about something. Example: "She had a subtle sense of the underlying tension in the room, even though no one was openly arguing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

He calibrates his actions with a subtle sense of the consequences.

The New Yorker

I am lucky lucky lucky.' She says it with a subtle sense of wonderment.

The Guardian - Film

Once I have the viewer's attention I want to create a subtle sense of alienation.

The Guardian

A subtle sense of humour prevailed in both, and that's nothing to laugh at.

The Guardian - Film

Reproductions testify that he had a subtle sense of color and a firm gift for telling portraiture.

The New Yorker

The ATS softens Cadillac's faceted art-and-science design language and has a subtle sense of proportion.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

There was no Manichean divide, but a subtler sense of our relationship to other sentient animals, the narrative we share.

The Guardian - Opinion

And there is a more subtle sense that his achievements make white Americans feel a little better about themselves, and a bit more open to Powell.

The New York Times - Magazine

In both works a complex, subtle sense of rhythm is evident.

The New York Times - Arts

In a more subtle sense, we often use sex to work out power dynamics in our relationships.

Huffington Post

So in some cases this kind of communication can also, in a more subtle sense, be understood as communication that respects autonomy.

BMC Medical Ethics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing art, consider "a subtle sense" to describe atmosphere, mood, or stylistic choices.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle sense" when describing something overtly obvious. Subtlety implies a degree of nuance that might be missed without careful attention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle sense" typically functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig's examples show it describing qualities like humor, alienation, or proportion. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Arts

11%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a subtle sense" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for describing understated perceptions or feelings. While less common than other similar phrases, it maintains a presence across various authoritative sources, particularly in news and media. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate for conveying nuance, but should be avoided when describing something overtly obvious. It is essential to ensure that the use of "a subtle sense" aligns with the context, accurately reflecting the delicacy or understatement intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a nuanced understanding

Highlights a deep and sophisticated comprehension.

a delicate feeling

Focuses on the emotional aspect, suggesting a gentle or fragile emotion.

a sensitive appreciation

Focuses on an emotional and thoughtful evaluation.

a keen perception

Suggests a sharp and insightful observation.

a faint awareness

Emphasizes a minimal or indistinct level of recognition.

a tacit understanding

Highlights an unspoken or implicit agreement or knowledge.

a refined sensibility

Implies a cultivated and sensitive appreciation.

an implicit feeling

Emphasizes the implied or suggested nature of an emotion.

a slight impression

Indicates a weak or subtle impact on the mind.

an underlying current

Suggests a hidden or not immediately obvious emotion or factor.

FAQs

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

You can use "a subtle sense" to describe a nuanced feeling or perception. For example, "She had a subtle sense of unease despite the cheerful atmosphere".

What are some alternatives to "a subtle sense"?

Alternatives include "a delicate feeling", "a faint awareness", or "a nuanced understanding", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

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

Yes, "a subtle sense" is appropriate for formal writing when you need to describe a refined or understated perception. Its usage is common in news and media, as well as more formal contexts.

What's the difference between "a subtle sense" and "a strong sense"?

"A subtle sense" implies a delicate or understated feeling, while "a strong sense" indicates a powerful or obvious feeling. They are opposites in terms of intensity.