subtle refinement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subtle refinement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a delicate or understated improvement or enhancement in something, such as art, design, or behavior. Example: "The artist's latest work showcases a subtle refinement in technique that elevates the overall composition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The shadow play and masked and unmasked dance are court arts reflecting centuries of subtle refinement under the patronage of kings and princes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Don't look here for subtle refinement; Jeanette Ingberman and Papo Colo, the curators and the proprietors of Exit Art, have erred on the side of sensational and surrealistic excess.

The New York Times - Arts

Despite that aggressive subtext, slashing, which dates at least from the age of Henry VIII, can be an expression of subtle refinement and luxury, one that surely appealed to Christophe Decarnin, whose spring collection at Balmain highlighted a succession of beat-up-looking officer's coats ripped to reveal not the brocades of Henry's day but a rich underlayer of glistening gold mesh.

The New York Times

The subtle refinement of Bronfman's style allowed him to weave ravishing spells in this inspired conversation between instruments, creating the effect of continually advancing or receding perspectives; duetting in turn with the lead cello, oboe, and horn, he gave as definitive a performance of this Olympian work as I ever expect to hear.

Independent

"More often than not, a subtle refinement will bring the logo up-to-date while keeping the equity that's already there.

BBC

In addition to a bunch of new filters, Photos now also sports features like Curves, a color adjusting tool that offers much more subtle refinement than standard color sliders.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

He improved by making subtle refinements.

The New York Times - Sports

The refreshing will include subtle refinements to the body and interior, the latest gadgets, maybe a new powertrain option.

The New York Times

With the first exposure to the subtle refinements of the Vietnamese kitchen, the uninitiated American quickly puts aside any preconceptions of the food as being the same as Chinese.

The New York Times - Magazine

A Dream Outside, the debut album from London outfit Gengahr, doesn't quite mess with the formula as dramatically as any of those examples, but does offer its own subtle refinements.

The Guardian - Music

Its ongoing success lies in a solidly discerning and richly varied booking policy favouring folk, electronic, psychedelic and global sounds, and subtle refinements to their offering each year sufficient to prove that they never take their generations-spanning audience for granted.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subtle refinement" to describe improvements that are not immediately noticeable but contribute to an overall better quality or effect. It's especially useful when discussing art, design, or performance.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle refinement" when the change is actually significant or transformative. This phrase is best suited for minor, almost imperceptible enhancements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subtle refinement" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes a nuanced or delicate improvement in something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subtle refinement" is a noun phrase that describes a delicate or understated improvement. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and usable English phrase. It is commonly used across various domains, including news media, science, and encyclopedias. The phrase conveys a sense of sophisticated and precise enhancement, and is considered grammatically correct and appropriate for both neutral and formal contexts. When using "subtle refinement", remember to reserve it for improvements that are genuinely minor and nuanced, avoiding its use when describing significant or transformative changes. Alternatives like "delicate improvement" or "nuanced enhancement" may be suitable depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fine-tuning

Describes making very small adjustments to optimize performance or quality.

nuanced enhancement

Emphasizes the subtle qualities and the enhancing effect of the change.

delicate improvement

Focuses on the improvement aspect but emphasizes its gentle and careful execution.

understated improvement

Focuses on the fact that the improvement is not obvious or showy.

minor adjustment

Highlights the small scale of the change or modification.

slight modification

Similar to minor adjustment but emphasizes the act of changing something.

gentle amelioration

Highlights the gradual and mild improvement being made.

gradual honing

Implies a slow and meticulous process of sharpening or perfecting.

delicate modulation

Implies a soft adjustment for a specific aspect of the expression.

minute calibration

Suggests a precise and detailed adjustment for optimization.

FAQs

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

You can use "subtle refinement" to describe a delicate improvement or enhancement. For example: "The artist's latest work showcases a "subtle refinement" in technique."

What are some alternatives to "subtle refinement"?

Alternatives include "delicate improvement", "minor adjustment", or "nuanced enhancement", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "subtle refinement" in formal writing?

Yes, "subtle refinement" is appropriate for formal writing. It's a standard phrase used in academic, professional, and journalistic contexts to describe delicate improvements or enhancements.

What is the difference between "subtle refinement" and "major overhaul"?

"Subtle refinement" refers to small, almost imperceptible improvements, while "major overhaul" indicates significant and transformative changes. They represent opposite ends of the spectrum of modifications.