1
as in shrewd
clever at attaining one's ends by indirect and often deceptive means
used subtle methods of persuasion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in delicate
made or done with extreme care and accuracy
the subtle strokes of the painter's brush
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
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Recent Examples of subtle
Sugar is the traditional sweetener in lassi, but the maple syrup here adds a subtle earthiness and dissolves quickly while blending.
—
The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026
Ever the rule breaker, instead of following the subtle footsteps other prestige makeup brands, Marc Jacobs Beauty puts luxury beauty on its head, from the formulas to the packaging.
—Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026
Other standout features include its rider tabs and Rouleaux bracelet, two details that the new collection gives a subtle update.
—Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 19 May 2026
The inner layer, of course, delivers subtle insulation to keep you cozy through the night.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for subtle
The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026
Ever the rule breaker, instead of following the subtle footsteps other prestige makeup brands, Marc Jacobs Beauty puts luxury beauty on its head, from the formulas to the packaging.
—Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 20 May 2026
Other standout features include its rider tabs and Rouleaux bracelet, two details that the new collection gives a subtle update.
—Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 19 May 2026
The inner layer, of course, delivers subtle insulation to keep you cozy through the night.
—Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for subtle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for subtle
Adjective
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In between shout-outs from the crowd, Colbert played it straight, rattling off jokes about the day’s headlines, revealing one last First Draft, and sharing shrewd bits of history about The Ed Sullivan Theater.—
Ben Travers,
IndieWire,
22 May 2026
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Brendan Fraser is on hand as well, playing a jerky LAPD detective who keeps stepping on Diamond’s toes, thwarting the private eye’s shrewd attempts to crack the case.—
Jordan Mintzer,
HollywoodReporter,
20 May 2026
Adjective
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Weightless drama brings sheer layers and kinetic textures to the forefront with drama by utilizing delicate trims and soft frill details.—
Kanika Talwar,
Footwear News,
14 May 2026
-
Nothing, though, is more delicate and dangerous than switching goalies.—
Troy Renck,
Denver Post,
14 May 2026
Adjective
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And, in fact, Estefan has been sunning on Vero Beach along the Florida Atlantic coast watching the sea turtles lay their eggs, vibing with the exquisite wonder of nature.—
Felicia Feaster,
AJC.com,
26 May 2026
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Telč's exquisite historic center seems like the fanciful creation of a Hollywood set designer.—
Anne Olivia Bauso,
Travel + Leisure,
21 May 2026
Adjective
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What could be more cunning and disgusting than training dogs to commit anal rape?—
David Frum,
The Atlantic,
21 May 2026
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Dano’s static line delivery gets used for a chilling but laconic effect as his character’s cunning political negotiations lead to deadly outcomes.—
Randy Myers,
Mercury News,
13 May 2026
Adjective
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To achieve, Connor turns to ultra-fine babylights, lowlighting, root melting, and using demi-permanent color—making grey part of the overall design with far less commitment than full coverage color.—
Amanda Le,
InStyle,
24 May 2026
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That picture works fine for Earth.—
Paul Sutter,
Space.com,
24 May 2026
Adjective
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The wrap-style ruffle hemline adds elegant volume and dimension to its skirt.—
Sian Babish,
PEOPLE,
24 May 2026
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Brugal French 88 Made by Jassil Villanueva Quintana, the world’s youngest and fifth generation rum master, Brugal Rum is rooted in Dominican heritage, perfect for this tropical yet elegant cocktail.—
Claudia Alarcón,
Forbes.com,
23 May 2026
Adjective
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The synthetic outer material moved with my foot, feeling sturdy, while the rubber sole kept my footing steady on busy sidewalks and slick surfaces.—
Toni Sutton,
PEOPLE,
24 May 2026
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But Cole overcame that initial adversity, getting Jonathan Aranda to fly out harmlessly, and then using a slick inside move to pick off Simpson.—
Peter Sblendorio,
New York Daily News,
23 May 2026
Adjective
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The exact reason why is debated by scientists, but theories include a huge collision in early Martian history, or unstable mantle plumes.—
Tom Brown,
Space.com,
25 May 2026
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The rooms Each stand-alone A-frame tent is structured and designed the exact same—the only difference between the rooms is the view.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
25 May 2026
Cite this Entry
“Subtle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subtle. Accessed 27 May. 2026.
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