subtle

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "subtle" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not obvious or is not easily noticed. For example: "The subtle nuances of the painting make it a masterpiece."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The imperious tone of that last sentence is the key to the strangely subtle balance of generosity and authority that has enabled Busby to make such a huge contribution to British football.

The Guardian - Sport

It had the chutzpah of Charlie Adam's 65-yard missile against Chelsea, the touch and technique of Wayne Rooney's swivelling volley against Aston Villa and the did-that-actually-just-happen quality of Jermain Defoe's winner for Sunderland against Newcastle United, and above all it was a gloriously subtle goal, instinct combining with a clear thought-process to devastating effect.

The Guardian - Sport

But the language of paradox, oxymoron and subtle contradiction – the language of children – does better.

The Guardian - Books

It's owned today by a French and Dutch couple, who have redesigned many of the rooms with a subtle Oriental design, and who run a popular seafood restaurant on the premises.

The Guardian - Travel

The situation is much more subtle, just as it is much more subtle than the unhelpful catchphrase of the 'right to be forgotten'.

The Guardian - Tech

The label does warn you of its "subtle hop flavour", but, really, life is too short for beers this meek.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But there's a more subtle point here, too, one that doesn't apply only to people mired in denial: we're all constantly revealing far more about our emotional lives than we may realise.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A more subtle line communicated by the picture is Cameron's adroitness and social ease.

The Guardian

What's more, I'd argue that plenty of younger Guardian writers take a left slant on all sorts of things – including the shortcomings of the Labour party and the excess pay and bonuses enjoyed by top corporate executives (now there's a bit of subtle).

The Guardian

The charms of this land of wheatfields, cork oak forests, wildflower meadows and tiny white-washed villages, are more subtle than in France or Italy's poster regions.

The Guardian - Travel

But last week the European commission cut its estimate for GDP growth this year to a miserly 0.5% The evidence of real and painful economic hardship is subtle in Athens.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing art or design, use "subtle" to highlight details that require a keen eye or developed taste to appreciate fully.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle" as a catch-all term for anything you find slightly pleasant or mildly interesting. Instead, specify the precise quality you're trying to convey, such as "refined", "delicate", or "understated".

Linguistic Context

The adjective "subtle" primarily functions to qualify nouns, indicating a quality of being not immediately obvious, refined, or understated. As evidenced by the Ludwig examples, it highlights nuances that require careful observation or understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Lifestyle

18%

Sport

8%

Less common in

Books

6%

Travel

6%

Opinion

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective "subtle" is a versatile term used to describe something that is not immediately obvious but requires careful observation or deeper understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, primarily in News & Media, Lifestyle and Sport. When writing, use "subtle" to highlight refined details or understated qualities, but avoid overuse as a generic descriptor. Consider alternatives like "nuanced", "delicate", or "understated" for more precise communication. Ultimately, mastering the use of "subtle" enhances your ability to convey nuanced observations and refined insights.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nuanced

Indicates a refined level of detail or complexity, suggesting a deeper understanding is needed.

delicate

Suggests fragility or sensitivity, often implying a need for careful handling.

understated

Highlights a deliberate lack of emphasis or obviousness.

implicit

Implies something is understood without being directly expressed.

indirect

Focuses on the roundabout or non-straightforward nature of communication or action.

muted

Emphasizes a reduction in intensity or expression.

slight

Indicates a small degree or amount.

faint

Suggests a weak or barely perceptible quality.

insinuated

Implies that something is communicated indirectly and often subtly.

suggested

Indicates something is brought to mind or hinted at without being explicitly stated.

FAQs

How can I use "subtle" in a sentence?

Use "subtle" to describe something that is not immediately obvious or easily noticed. For example, "The painting's beauty lies in its "subtle" details."

What's a good alternative to the word "subtle"?

Alternatives to "subtle" include "nuanced", "delicate", or "understated", depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "subtle" and "implicit"?

"Subtle" refers to something refined or not immediately obvious, while "implicit" means something is understood without being directly expressed. Therefore, a "subtle" hint may not be obvious, and an "implicit" agreement doesn't need to be spoken.

Is it correct to say something is "very subtle"?

Yes, it is correct to say something is "very subtle". Using "very" as an intensifier simply emphasizes the degree to which something is not obvious or easily perceived.