subtle

adjective

ˈsə-tᵊl How to pronounce subtle (audio)
Definition of subtlenext
1
as in shrewd
clever at attaining one's ends by indirect and often deceptive means used subtle methods of persuasion

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in delicate
made or done with extreme care and accuracy the subtle strokes of the painter's brush

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in exquisite
satisfying or pleasing because of fineness or mildness a subtle suggestion of the Near East in the soup's flavoring

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of subtle Coco says The final product was a beautiful off-the-shoulder gown with a subtle sweetheart neckline, draping at the hip, and a sweeping train. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 14 Aug. 2026 Jerry Seinfeld inducted Sarandos with a speech that doubled as a tribute to the Netflix co-CEO and a not-so-subtle campaign for his own Hall of Fame induction. — Lilly Workneh, HollywoodReporter, 14 Aug. 2026 The ribbed fabric of this black one-piece swimsuit — which costs just $37 — offers extra flair, and the subtle scoop back is great for getting an end-of-summer tan. — Claire West, PEOPLE, 14 Aug. 2026 While a thin sliver will remain illuminated by direct sunlight, most of the lunar surface will appear dramatically darkened with a subtle reddish-orange glow — reminiscent of a total lunar eclipse seen across North America on March 3. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for subtle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for subtle
  1. cunning
  2. delicate
  3. exquisite
  4. slick
  5. fine
  6. elegant
  7. deceptive
  8. exact
Adjective
  • Consider, for instance, the institution of oprichnina that Tsar Ivan IV established in 1565, through various cunning moves.
    — Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026
  • With the correct number of dots, no arrangement, however cunning, can dodge these shapes forever.
    — Jack Murtagh, Scientific American, 10 Aug. 2026
Definition of cunning
Adjective
  • While the use of AI in the filmmaking process remains a delicate topic in Hollywood, Wall Street has a more straightforwardly Darwinian view.
    — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Sculptural bangles and bold cuffs are replacing delicate jewelry, whether stacked or balanced on both wrists.
    — Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of delicate
Adjective
  • Its significance stems not only from its exquisite quality and celebrated designer but also from Ogilvy's deep personal connection to Verdura, a relationship that began in her childhood.
    — Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
  • The couture team and Pierpaolo sent the most exquisite selection of sketches to choose from.
    — Alexandra Macon, Vogue, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of exquisite
Adjective
  • There’s the slick, glad-handing publisher of Hamptons magazine, and the feisty Citarella market scion who would love to have her picture featured in its pages.
    — Naomi Fry, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2026
  • When shoppers lose their traction on slick, unforgiving floors, severe bruising, fractured wrists, spinal pain, and concussions are common results.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of slick
Adjective
  • Even though his parents split more than 25 years ago, according to Us Weekly, their living arrangement worked out just fine.
    — Diane J. Cho, PEOPLE, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Before planting any hibiscus seeds, start by nicking or sanding the seeds using fine-grade sandpaper or the tip of a knife.
    — Shelby Vittek, The Spruce, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of fine
Adjective
  • The five-night yacht voyages combine access to historic sites along the river and elegant, luxurious accommodations.
    — Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Featuring romantic bell sleeves, an elegant boat neckline, and an adjustable back cinch detail, this figure-forming top looks flattering on just about everyone.
    — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of elegant
Adjective
  • Violations of the law are a deceptive trade practice, which can be investigated by the state attorney general's office.
    — Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Protection of the president has often required deft and deceptive tactics by the Secret Service.
    — Donald J. Mihalek, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of deceptive
Adjective
  • While the exact timing and intensity of the impacts are still uncertain and will ultimately depend on how close Lala tracks to the Hawaiian islands, heavy rain, strong winds and rough surf impacts are likely this weekend.
    — Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 14 Aug. 2026
  • According to the outlet, casings found outside the building suggest the shooting began outside and then continued inside the apartment, but an investigation into the exact circumstances continues.
    — Adam England, PEOPLE, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of exact

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subtitles
subtle
subtleness
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Cite this Entry

“Subtle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subtle. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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Nglish: Translation of subtle for Spanish Speakers

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