subtle — so delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: so delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈsʌtl/
Example Sentences
- My mom's subtle way of asking if I'm dating someone is showing me wedding magazines.
- The teacher's subtle look told me I was talking too much in class.
- There's a subtle art to eating ramen without making noise - I haven't mastered it yet.
subtle
ADJECTIVE[/ˈsʌtl/]
so delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe
There was a subtle difference between the two paintings.
The queen sent a subtle signal during the negotiation. (SMALL + HARD TO NOTICE = SUBTLE → subtle means present, but not obvious)
A subtle clue guides the shuttle through a hidden puzzle.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'subtilis' meaning 'fine, thin, or delicate', derived from 'sub-' (under) and 'tela' (web or cloth), originally referring to something woven finely or thinly.
Breakdown
sub- (under) + -tle (from Latin -tilis, meaning 'capable of' or 'thin') = subtle
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom's subtle way of asking if I'm dating someone is showing me wedding magazines.”
“The teacher's subtle look told me I was talking too much in class.”
“There's a subtle art to eating ramen without making noise - I haven't mastered it yet.”
“The subtle fragrance of jasmine filled the evening air.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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