subtler; subtlest
1
: hard to notice or see : not obvious
a subtle difference in meaning between the words
subtle changes/variations
the subtlest details
Racial discrimination still exists, only now it's subtler than it once was.
subtle flavors
2
: clever and indirect : not showing your real purpose
When it comes to giving criticism, sometimes it's best to take a subtle approach.
He didn't seem to understand my subtle hints.
It was her subtle way of telling me to mind my own business.
3
: having or showing skill at recognizing and understanding things that are not obvious : perceptive
She has a subtle mind.
a subtle analysis
Cite this Entry
“Subtle.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/subtle. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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