subtle
/ˈsʌtəl/ adjective B2- Of an action or movement: very delicate or slight, and thus barely noticeable; not obvious; inconspicuous, unintrusive.
- Of a substance, especially a gas or liquid: of low density or thin consistency; rarefied, tenuous; hence, tending to spread everywhere due to this quality.
- Of an argument or concept, words, etc.: requiring one to distinguish between fine points, especially if it is difficult to do so; nice; also (generally), difficult to grasp; not easily understood or obvious.
- Giving only a slight impression; elusive, indistinct; also, skilfully restrained or understated. · The difference between the tones is subtle, but you can hear it if you listen carefully.
- Of an artist, a musician, etc.: having a light touch; sensitive.
- Of a person: sensitive to the feelings of others; discreet, tactful.
- Of a person, their intellect or mind, etc.: discerning, perceptive, shrewd, wise.
- Acting (especially causing harm) in a stealthy, often gradual, manner; insidious.
Comparative subtler · Superlative subtlest
From the library
Thus the Genoese, subtle as he was, was duped by Edmond, in whose favor his mild demeanor, his nautical skill, and his admirable dissimulation, pleaded.
“Subtle enough and horrible enough.
“There is a further point, however, which is subtler and of greater interest.
It was more subtle than that—something slinking, something furtive, something guilty—something very unlike the frank, manly lad that I had known.
Other matches
Learn subtle in real texts
With a free account, hover any word in the library for its meaning, hear it read aloud, save words for review timed to your memory, and see how much of each book you already know.