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

Providing this information allows nuanced, specific feedback to be given, tailored to your garden. —Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 25 Feb. 2026

Set against Seoul’s nuanced urban landscape, the series explored young adults navigating contemporary uncertainties using restrained direction and emotional realism to highlight the global appeal of the healing genre. —Partner Content, Variety, 25 Feb. 2026

Instead of resorting to basic bright hues like red, orange, yellow, blue, or green, the designers suggest a more sophisticated and nuanced approach to these shades. —Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026

Skarsgård’s restrained and nuanced performance as this flawed patriarch earned him his first-ever Oscar nomination, one of nine total nods earned by Trier’s moving film. —Rebecca Ford, Vanity Fair, 24 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above