subtlety — the quality of being subtle; delicate skill in handling or treating something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the quality of being subtle; delicate skill in handling or treating something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsʌtəlti/
Example Sentences
- He completely missed the subtlety of her sarcastic comment and thought she was being sincere.
- The chef's subtlety in combining flavors created a masterpiece dish.
- Politicians often use subtlety to avoid giving direct answers to difficult questions.
subtlety
NOUN[/ˈsʌtəlti/]
the quality of being subtle; delicate skill in handling or treating something
The subtlety between the two paintings was noticed only by experts.
The subtlety of the queen's signal was understood by only one advisor. (SMALL DETAIL + HIDDEN MEANING = SUBTLETY → subtlety is the quality of being delicate, slight, and difficult to notice)
A subtlety hidden in the mystery led to an important discovery.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'subtilis' (fine, delicate), originally referring to closely woven cloth before developing the sense of 'refined' and 'nuanced'. The word evolved from a concrete textile reference to an abstract descriptor of sophistication and precision.
Breakdown
subtilis (fine, delicate) + -ty (noun suffix forming abstract qualities). The Latin root subtilis itself derives from sub- (under) + -tilis (woven), originally meaning 'finely woven'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“He completely missed the subtlety of her sarcastic comment and thought she was being sincere.”
“The chef's subtlety in combining flavors created a masterpiece dish.”
“Politicians often use subtlety to avoid giving direct answers to difficult questions.”
“The subtlety of his hint was lost on his dense roommate who kept playing loud music.”
📚Related Words
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