subtle signal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subtle signal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a faint or indirect indication of something, often in contexts like communication, behavior, or emotions. Example: "Her smile was a subtle signal that she was pleased with the outcome of the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

A subtle signal?

The New York Times - Sports

Patent leather corsettry does not send a subtle signal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Pacers missed a subtle signal on Saturday that the Knicks were out of emotional steam.

The New York Times - Sports

Prosecutors contended that the message was a subtle signal to the staff to destroy Enron-related files.

The New York Times

Rice, in naming Bolton herself, sent a not so subtle signal that she expects to remain boss.

The New Yorker

But Mr. Loeb said that she was also hired to send a subtle signal to ABC's audience.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Others have sent more subtle signals.

The New York Times

Subtle Signals of Trouble Scenes of daily life play out on the screen.

The New York Times

"We were sending informal, subtle signals that we don't like this guy.

The New York Times

Curators and keepers are spending more time trying to communicate with the animals, requiring patience and attention to subtle signals.

The New York Times

People pick up millions of subtle signals from body language, word choice, facial expressions, policy positions and biographical details.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "subtle signal", consider the audience and context to ensure the signal's subtlety is appropriate and not easily missed. If clarity is paramount, a more direct approach may be necessary.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle signal" in overly casual or informal contexts where a more direct or straightforward expression would be more appropriate. Using it too often can make your communication sound affected or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subtle signal" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "subtle" modifies the noun "signal". It describes a type of signal that is not immediately obvious, requiring careful observation or interpretation. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "subtle signal" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes an indirect or faint indication. As verified by Ludwig AI, it is versatile and applicable across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media and Science. When choosing alternatives, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey, such as a "faint clue" or "gentle hint". While its use is generally appropriate, avoid overuse in informal settings where a more direct expression might be preferable. The most frequent authoritative sources that use this phrase are The New York Times, The Guardian and The New Yorker.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight indication

Replaces "signal" with "indication", emphasizing the act of pointing something out.

faint clue

Substitutes "signal" with "clue", focusing on its role as a piece of information to solve a problem.

gentle hint

Uses "hint" instead of "signal", suggesting a more delicate and indirect form of communication.

mild suggestion

Replaces "signal" with "suggestion", implying a tentative proposal or idea.

delicate cue

Uses "cue" in place of "signal", highlighting its function as a prompt or trigger for action.

muted indication

Changes "subtle" to "muted", intensifying the understatement.

understated sign

Replaces both words to convey the idea that the sign is presented in a restrained or subtle way.

implicit message

Shifts the focus to the message itself, suggesting it is conveyed indirectly.

tacit communication

Emphasizes the unspoken or implied nature of the communication.

veiled implication

Highlights the hidden or disguised nature of the suggestion.

FAQs

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

You can use "subtle signal" to describe a faint or indirect indication of something. For instance, "Her hesitation was a "subtle signal" that she wasn't entirely convinced."

What's a good alternative to "subtle signal"?

Alternatives include "slight indication", "faint clue", or "gentle hint", depending on the context you're aiming for.

Is it better to use "subtle signal" or "obvious signal"?

The choice depends on whether the indication is faint and indirect ("subtle signal") or clear and easily noticed ("obvious signal").

When is it appropriate to use "subtle signal" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to describe an indirect cue or communication that isn't immediately apparent. For example, "The change in his tone was a "subtle signal" of his growing impatience."