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

Within this context, Vado has developed a nuanced view that campaign performance reflects an interplay of data quality, human strategy, and execution discipline. —Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 25 Mar. 2026

This question elicited everything from logical answers to nuanced ones to wild ones. —Abbey Mastracco, Hartford Courant, 23 Mar. 2026

In that spirit, layering offers a way to create something entirely personal—building from hydrating body care to mists and oils—while also bridging into skin-nourishing formulas and more nuanced notes. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Mar. 2026

And Condon says the appropriate response is often nuanced, as well. —Joel Rose, NPR, 23 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above