Pronunciation: /ˈsʌtlti/

Definitions of subtlety

noun the quality or state of being subtle; delicacy or exactness of perception or discrimination

Example Sentences

A1 She appreciated the subtlety of the flavors in the soup.

A2 The artist used subtlety in blending different shades of blue in the painting.

B1 The detective noticed the subtlety of the suspect's body language during the interrogation.

B2 The author's use of subtlety in foreshadowing the plot twist kept readers engaged until the end.

C1 The politician's speech was praised for its subtlety in addressing complex social issues.

C2 The director's film was lauded for its masterful subtlety in conveying deep emotions without words.

adjective subtle (related adjective)

Example Sentences

A1 She appreciated the subtlety of his gesture.

A2 The artist used subtlety in blending colors to create a beautiful painting.

B1 The novel's plot was filled with subtlety, making it a compelling read.

B2 The politician's speech was praised for its subtlety in addressing complex issues.

C1 The director's use of subtlety in the film's cinematography added depth to the storyline.

C2 The musician's performance was a masterclass in subtlety, showcasing their skill and artistry.

Examples of subtlety in a Sentence

formal The artist's painting displayed a great level of subtlety in its use of light and shadow.

informal I appreciate the subtlety of her sense of humor, it's not always obvious but it's there.

slang The subtlety of his flirting game is next level, he knows how to drop hints without being too obvious.

figurative The subtlety of her words cut through the tension in the room like a sharp knife.

Grammatical Forms of subtlety

past tense

subtlety

plural

subtleties

comparative

more subtle

superlative

most subtle

present tense

subtleties

future tense

will subtlety

perfect tense

has subtlety

continuous tense

is subtletying

singular

subtlety

positive degree

subtle

infinitive

to subtlety

gerund

subtletying

participle

subtle

Origin and Evolution of subtlety

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'subtlety' originated from the Latin word 'subtilitas', which was derived from the Latin word 'subtilis' meaning finely woven or thin.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'subtlety' has evolved to also connote complexity, nuance, and cleverness in addition to its original meaning of being finely woven or thin.