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subtle

Pronunciation: [ˈsʌtəl]

Word

Learn how to use subtle in a sentence: 6 audio examples across 2 meanings.

Context: “similarity”

(adjective) when something is very delicate or not very obvious. It can be something that is hard to notice because it is so gentle or slight. For example, a subtle flavor in food means you can taste it, but it’s not very strong.

Example

The soup had a subtle hint of garlic that made it taste amazing.

Example

The flavor in the dish was not subtle; it was very overpowering and strong.

Example

Did you notice the subtle differences in the characters' personalities?

Context: “relationship”

(adjective) when someone understands something well but in a quiet or indirect way. This can be used to describe a person who is good at picking up on small signs or feelings that others might miss.

Example

She made a subtle suggestion that improved the project a lot.

Example

His response was not subtle at all; it was very blunt and direct.

Example

Can you be subtle when giving feedback to your friends?

How to pronounce subtle

Pronunciation: [ˈsʌtəl]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

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