English · Adjectives
subtle
/ˈsʌt.əl/
[/ˈsʌt.əl/]
delicate or not obvious
Intermediateadjective
Definition
So delicate or precise that it is difficult to notice, analyse, or describe.
Example
There was a subtle change in his tone that suggested he was not telling the whole truth.
There was a subtle change in his tone that suggested he was not telling the whole truth.
Etymology
From Latin 'subtilis' (fine, delicate), originally of finely woven cloth.
How & Where It’s Used
Common in literary, critical, and everyday descriptive writing.