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

• 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

Rather than operating off of a narrow (and often unhelpful) script, AI chatbots use natural language processing (NLP) to offer nuanced responses to complicated questions. —Aytekin Tank, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025

The two recent rulings are best viewed as first steps toward a more nuanced conversation about what responsible AI development could look like. —Alex Reisner, The Atlantic, 14 July 2025

Their work reflects a commitment to authentic, nuanced storytelling that perfectly aligns with our vision. —Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 14 July 2025

This paints members of Gen Z in a more nuanced light than they’re often given credit for. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above