subtlety

noun

sub·​tle·​ty ˈsə-tᵊl-tē 

plural subtleties

1

: the quality or state of being subtle

2

: something subtle

Synonyms

• cunning
• artfulness
• subtleness

Examples of subtlety in a Sentence

The pianist performed with subtlety and passion.

we appreciated the subtlety with which our host indicated that it was time to leave: he volunteered to pack us a little lunch for the road

Recent Examples on the Web

The subtlety of Akerman’s concept and the wry tenderness of her approach are, however, merely a start. —Richard Brody, New Yorker, 10 Sep. 2025

Combined with Yuki Kajiura and Go Shiina’s score, this soundscape bolsters the fights and emotional flashbacks alike with no degree of subtlety. —David Opie, IndieWire, 10 Sep. 2025

Maximalists can lean into bold, dramatic hues, while those who prefer subtlety can opt for earthy neutrals that blend seamlessly with their kitchen decor. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Sep. 2025

With uncanny accuracy, latent space manipulation records vocal subtleties and micro-expressions. —Rohan Pinto, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English sotilte, subtilte, from Anglo-French sotilté, from Latin subtilitat-, subtilitas, from subtilis

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

subtlety

noun

sub·​tle·​ty ˈsət-ᵊl-tē 

plural subtleties

1

: the quality or state of being subtle

2

: something subtle