"subtle mentions" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe when someone mentions something in a discreet or understated manner. Example: Despite the tense atmosphere in the room, Sarah managed to make subtle mentions about the upcoming project, hoping to gauge her boss's reaction.
Another senior administration official said the White House lobbying campaign on Capitol Hill would include not-so-subtle mentions of the regrets experienced by those lawmakers, like former Senator Sam Nunn, who did not vote for the 1991 "use of force" resolution before the Persian Gulf war.
Avoid trying to rush things too fast, avoid less-than-subtle mentions of biological clocks and how much you'd love to have children some day soon, and avoid making hints about getting engaged or what you'd wear at your dream wedding.
No artful or subtle mention of the barriers to real political expression in Russia followed.
The subtle mention of a guy you know will make someone much more jealous than if you raved on and on about all of the guys you know.
The AP also mentions the "subtle difference" that white supremacists believe whites to be superior.
His book is strongest in showing how the pivotal aspects were more subtle, not to mention more humdrum, than some cheer-the-little-guy morality play.
I have been put in mind of money and its discontents because I have just read a début novel called "The Unfortunates," by Sophie McManus, which is a wonderfully precise and subtle — not to mention unexpectedly moving — take on the assumptions and beleaguerments that go with great wealth.
In order to avoid non-participation of cases with analgesic nephropathy, the information on the type of question in the study information is subtle and avoids mentioning of analgesics.
You can be less subtle, and even mention that you want to do something fun over the weekend but don't know what -- just don't be too obvious about it.
