nuanced

adjective

nu·​anced ˈnü-ˌän(t)st 

ˈnyü-;

nü-ˈän(t)st, 

nyü-

: having nuances : having or characterized by subtle and often appealingly complex qualities, aspects, or distinctions (as in character or tone)

a nuanced performance

Whenever the movie focusses on Van Doren and Goodwin and Stempel, it treats them as nuanced human beings. But other characters in the film … are sketched less fully.

—Ken Auletta

And in this rare instance, the family-friendly franchise isn't a bland, pabulum compromise but a more inspired, nuanced alternative.

—Mike Flaherty

This more psychologically nuanced self-examination requires that we honestly challenge our beliefs and summon the courage to act on that information, which may lead to fresh ways of thinking about our lives and our goals.

—Camille Sweeney and Josh Gosfield

Synonyms of nuanced

• subtle
• delicate
• nice

Examples of nuanced in a Sentence

a nuanced, shaded representation of a hot-button issue that is too often depicted in black and white

a sauce with a nuanced lemon flavor that doesn't overwhelm the taste of the fish

Recent Examples on the Web

However, the labor picture remains nuanced. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 17 Dec. 2025

Despite France’s challenging regulatory environment for streamers, Sarandos offered a nuanced view of operating in the market during the upfronts conversation. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 16 Dec. 2025

Instead, Tim Cain and the Interplay team focused on their own ideas to create a gritty and nuanced world that still had a satirical sense of humor. —Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 15 Dec. 2025

In the Willy Wonka-esque laboratory, master distillers at Chopin work with flavor and texture to create a nuanced and layered spirit. —Teddy Minford, Vogue, 15 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above