subtlety

noun

sub·​tle·​ty ˈsə-tᵊl-tē 

plural subtleties

1

: the quality or state of being subtle

2

: something subtle

Synonyms

• artfulness
• artifice
• caginess
• cageyness
• canniness
• craft
• craftiness
• cunning
• cunningness
• deviousness
• foxiness
• guile
• guilefulness
• slickness
• slyness
• sneakiness
• subtleness
• wiliness

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

On fashion’s most theatrical night, Khan’s look achieved its impact through its (relative) subtlety. —Manglien Gangte, Vogue, 6 May 2025

The people who insist on making sense speak in small, prim voices, trusting their listeners to understand subtleties of tone. —Vinson Cunningham, New Yorker, 5 May 2025

The royal family traditionally has never been known for either its sensitivity or subtlety. —Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 23 Apr. 2025

The subtleties of Baer’s composition in relationship to the flanks defy easy summary. —Sarah K. Rich, Artforum, 1 Apr. 2025

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