a subtle widening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle widening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a gradual or slight increase in size, scope, or intensity in various contexts, such as art, design, or even emotional states. Example: "The artist achieved a subtle widening of the color palette, which added depth to the overall composition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

From the SNP there has been a subtle widening of its definition of Scottish interests.

Independent

The presence of a bulky methyl group might lead to a subtle widening of the major groove and, consequently, a subtle narrowing of the minor groove, owing to the close proximity of the methyl group to the phosphodiester backbone, which might lead to steric hindrance.

Briefings in Functional Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A subtle signal?

The New York Times - Sports

A subtle or obvious message?

The New Yorker

It is a subtle war.

Independent

This is a subtle concept.

The New Yorker

Again, a subtle lesson.

The New York Times - Books

A subtle underlying levity prevailed.

The New York Times - Arts

A subtle portent lurks behind.

The New Yorker

Iranians are a subtle people.

The Economist

It's a subtle pleasure".

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a subtle widening", ensure the context clearly indicates what is expanding. This adds precision and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle widening" when the change is significant or easily noticeable. This undermines credibility and misrepresents the situation.

Linguistic Context

Noun phrase. The phrase "a subtle widening" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the act or process of something becoming slightly wider or more expansive. Ludwig AI provides examples where it describes the expansion of definitions or physical spaces.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a subtle widening" is a grammatically sound noun phrase that denotes a slight or gradual increase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While its frequency is rare, it appears in both news and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that the widening is indeed subtle and that the context clearly defines what is expanding. Related phrases like ""slight expansion"" and ""gradual broadening"" can serve as alternatives, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight expansion

Emphasizes a small increase in size or scope.

a gradual broadening

Highlights a slow and progressive increase in range or understanding.

a gentle increase

Focuses on a mild and unforced rise in quantity or intensity.

a marginal growth

Suggests a small and barely noticeable increment.

a creeping enlargement

Implies a slow, almost imperceptible increase in size.

a delicate augmentation

Highlights a refined and careful addition or expansion.

an imperceptible extension

Emphasizes that the widening is so subtle it is almost impossible to detect.

a nuanced development

Focuses on a subtle and significant change or evolution.

a progressive dilation

Implies a slow and steady expansion or widening, often in a medical or technical context.

a nearly invisible increment

Emphasizes the widening is so minimal, it is practically unseen.

FAQs

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

You can use "a subtle widening" to describe a slight increase or expansion. For example, "From the SNP there has been "a subtle widening" of its definition of Scottish interests".

What are some alternatives to "a subtle widening"?

Alternatives include "slight expansion", "gradual broadening", or "gentle increase", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a subtle widening" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a subtle widening" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing gradual or nuanced changes. However, ensure the context is clear and the phrase accurately reflects the degree of change.

What's the difference between "a subtle widening" and "a significant expansion"?

"A subtle widening" implies a small, barely noticeable increase, while "a significant expansion" suggests a larger, more obvious change. The choice depends on the scale of the change you are describing.