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

Amidst new friends, fresh joy, and many different and nuanced relationships, Henri also finds secrets, lies, difficulty, and denial – leading her to question everything about herself, her heritage, and her family. —Denise Petski, Deadline, 1 Apr. 2026

With deftly nuanced performances and atmospheric cinematography, this riveting drama unfolds as a story of innocence lost when young Maria’s sister goes missing without a trace. —Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 1 Apr. 2026

But the picture is more nuanced than a straightforward decline. —Francesca Cassidy, Fortune, 31 Mar. 2026

That may be entirely appropriate, because attending to these everyday concerns usually does not require sophisticated clinical judgment or nuanced decision making. —Alexandra Sifferlin, The Atlantic, 31 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above