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

For those unfamiliar with large international sporting events, like the World Cup, combine the moronic passion of a major college football game with the subtlety of a drunk panther with the judgment of a mother on her daughter’s wedding day. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Dec. 2025

These color differences across the surface add subtlety and nuance. —Erin Parish, Miami Herald, 5 Dec. 2025

No in-between colors or subtlety. —Loren Savini, Allure, 4 Dec. 2025

Scientists should study the noses behind Glossier’s olfactory team, who came out of the gate with scents that went instantly viral for their newness, their subtlety, and their uncanny ability to smell great on everyone. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 1 Dec. 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