subtlety

noun

sub·​tle·​ty ˈsə-tᵊl-tē 

plural subtleties

1

: the quality or state of being subtle

2

: something subtle

Synonyms of subtlety

• cunning
• artfulness
• subtleness

Examples of subtlety in a Sentence

The pianist performed with subtlety and passion.

we appreciated the subtlety with which our host indicated that it was time to leave: he volunteered to pack us a little lunch for the road

Recent Examples on the Web

The earthy subtlety of the beet puree complements the mushrooms, and the crunchy leeks add texture. —Barbara Ellis, Denver Post, 9 Mar. 2026

My approach balances practicality with subtlety, choosing travel essentials that protect without advertising your valuables. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 8 Mar. 2026

There is little subtlety about Operation Epic Fury, right down to its name. —Vivian Salama, The Atlantic, 6 Mar. 2026

Other subtleties during this Knicks defensive 180 include Landry Shamet rounding into form since missing time with a shoulder injury. —James L. Edwards Iii, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sotilte, subtilte, from Anglo-French sotilté, from Latin subtilitat-, subtilitas, from subtilis

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

subtlety

noun

sub·​tle·​ty ˈsət-ᵊl-tē 

plural subtleties

1

: the quality or state of being subtle

2

: something subtle