nuanced

adjective

nu·​anced ˈnü-ˌän(t)st 

ˈnyü-;

nü-ˈän(t)st,

nyü-

: having nuances : having or characterized by subtle and often appealingly complex qualities, aspects, or distinctions (as in character or tone)

a nuanced performance

Whenever the movie focusses on Van Doren and Goodwin and Stempel, it treats them as nuanced human beings. But other characters in the film … are sketched less fully.

—Ken Auletta

And in this rare instance, the family-friendly franchise isn't a bland, pabulum compromise but a more inspired, nuanced alternative.

—Mike Flaherty

This more psychologically nuanced self-examination requires that we honestly challenge our beliefs and summon the courage to act on that information, which may lead to fresh ways of thinking about our lives and our goals.

—Camille Sweeney and Josh Gosfield

Synonyms

• delicate
• exact
• fine
• finespun
• hairline
• hairsplitting
• minute
• nice
• refined
• subtle

Examples of nuanced in a Sentence

a nuanced, shaded representation of a hot-button issue that is too often depicted in black and white

a sauce with a nuanced lemon flavor that doesn't overwhelm the taste of the fish

Recent Examples on the Web

These advanced hardware configurations enable researchers to explore nuanced robotic learning methodologies. —Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 17 Jan. 2025

Furthermore, the rising threat of hybrid warfare—where cyberattacks merge with propaganda and extremist activity—demands a nuanced strategy that ensures no gaps are left in the federal response. —Emil Sayegh, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025

But even though the tech has made strides, the replicating subtle, delicate, nuanced sensations of touch has remained just out of reach. —Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 16 Jan. 2025

Age verification might be allowed The Justice Department, which will get to make its own argument on Wednesday, has a more nuanced position. —Maureen Groppe, USA TODAY, 15 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above