subtle variation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subtle variation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a slight or nuanced difference in something, often in contexts like art, design, or analysis. Example: "The artist's work showcases a subtle variation in color that adds depth to the overall composition."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mr. Charlap's control of dynamics isn't restricted to extremes of loud and soft; he offers true, subtle variation.

The New York Times

"But you might have a more subtle variation in how much this behavior is expressed".

The New York Times - Science

But "because in cement tiles the colors are mixed by hand, you get a subtle variation, which is so lovely.

The New York Times

No wonder he says: "I've always seen subtle variation as being the key to my success, using flight and pace rather than turn".

Independent

In the opposite corner, wearing tricolor trunks, is nuance, rooted in the Latin for "cloud" and the French for "shade," meaning "a subtle variation in tone" or "delicate shading of meaning".

The New York Times - Magazine

Both women can sound irritatingly long-suffering, but, with only subtle variation in tone between them, the barriers between their identities dissolve and blur to produce a moving portrait of familial connection, compassion, and grief.

The New Yorker

The Argentinean novelist Rodrigo Fresán suggests that throughout the seven novels in which he figures, Marlowe truly falls in love with only one person, the ambiguous and gentlemanly Terry Lennox, a subtle variation on F. Scott Fitzgerald's Jay Gatsby.

Independent

His Still Life with a Burning Candle (1627) and the Breakfast Still Life (1647) show a subtle variation of closely related monochrome colours, which in his later, more Baroque work became stronger.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Like seasoned gigolos, such people know only of success, repeated every night with subtle variation; they talk of "mastering" the art of cooking, whereas most of us are lucky to be its slaves, scalded and swearing, doomed to tiptoe along the verge of failure.

The New Yorker

Yasir, bowling in his first Test innings outside Asia, gutted the home side's middle order with figures of five for 64, using subtle variation rather than any considerable turn to become the first wrist spinner on the honours board since Mushtaq Ahmed, his coach, 20 years ago.

The Guardian - Sport

Further, the subtle variation of chemical composition [20, 21] will bring great changes in the electrochemical performance of products.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subtle variation" when describing minor differences that are important to acknowledge, especially in detailed analyses or precise descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle variation" when the difference is actually significant or impactful. Choose a stronger term if the distinction is more than just a nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subtle variation" functions as a noun phrase where "subtle" modifies the noun "variation". It describes a minor or nuanced difference. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

49%

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subtle variation" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a minor or nuanced difference. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's particularly prevalent in scientific and news contexts, as evidenced by the numerous examples. When writing, use it to accurately depict small but important distinctions, avoiding its use when the difference is more significant. Consider alternatives such as "slight difference" or "nuanced distinction" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight difference

Replaces "variation" with a more general term for difference, emphasizing the small degree.

nuanced distinction

Substitutes both "subtle" and "variation" with synonyms that highlight the fine points of differentiation.

minor alteration

Focuses on the aspect of change, using "alteration" instead of "variation" and "minor" instead of "subtle".

delicate shift

Emphasizes a gradual change, using "shift" and "delicate" to convey the subtlety.

fine modification

Highlights the precision and refinement involved in the change or difference.

marginal difference

Focuses on the smallness of the difference using "marginal".

insignificant change

Highlights that the change is not important or impactful.

imperceptible deviation

Focuses on the difficulty of noticing the variation, using "imperceptible" and "deviation".

minute difference

Replaces 'subtle' with 'minute', further emphasizing the small nature of the difference.

gradual change

Highlights the gradual aspect of the variation or modification.

FAQs

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

You can use "subtle variation" to describe a minor difference or change that is often nuanced or delicate. For instance, "The chef introduced a subtle variation to the classic recipe."

What are some alternatives to "subtle variation"?

Alternatives include "slight difference", "nuanced distinction", or "minor alteration", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "subtle variation" and "significant change"?

Yes, "subtle variation" implies a small, often nuanced difference, while "significant change" indicates a major or impactful alteration.

In what contexts is "subtle variation" most appropriately used?

"Subtle variation" is best used in contexts where precision and attention to detail are important, such as in scientific analysis, artistic critiques, or detailed descriptions.