Subtle
Not obvious or easily noticed; delicate and precise, requiring careful thought to notice or understand.
adjectiveSubtle
Not obvious or easily noticed; delicate and precise, requiring careful thought to notice or understand.
adjectiveImagine This
A submarine made out of tiles is harder to follow by radar underwater than regular metal submarines.
Sounds Like
SUT-uhl
Looks Like
Similar to subtle or subtlety; visually resembles the word 'subtle' and shares the same root meaning.
Remember This
Subtle describes nuance, fine distinctions, or understated qualities rather than obvious features.
Other Forms
Connect With
nuance, delicacy, refinement, understatedness, fine distinction
Note
Subtle often contrasts with obvious or overt; it implies refinement, tact, or a lack of directness. Do not confuse with 'substantial' or 'slight' in a way that changes emphasis.
Study Deeper
- Her subtle smile suggested approval without saying a word.
- There was a subtle difference between the two proposals that affected the outcome.
From Latin subtilis 'fine, delicate', via Old French subtil; related to 'subtlety'.
Silent B: The b in subtle is silent, reminding you that subtle things are not obvious and require careful attention to notice.
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Disingenuous
adjectiveNot candid or sincere; intentionally pretending to be naive or harmless in order to mislead others.
Contiguous
adjectiveTouching or sharing a common border; adjacent or directly next to something with no gap between them.
Kindle
verbTo light or start a fire; to arouse or inflame (a feeling, interest, or emotion).
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.