subtlety

noun
UK: /ˈsʌtəlti/
US: /ˈsʌtəlti/

  1. The quality of being subtle; a fine or delicate detail or distinction.

    1. I admired the subtlety of her plan.
    2. The chef's skill was evident in the subtlety of flavors in the sauce, showing mastery.

  2. A subtle remark or idea.

    1. He hinted at a subtlety I didn't understand.
    2. The subtleties of the negotiation were lost on those who lacked experience with contracts.

  3. The ability to notice or understand small differences or details.

    1. She lacked the subtlety to understand his hints.
    2. Detecting the subtlety in his expression required careful observation of his features.

Synonyms

delicacy refinement finesse distinction nuance

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "subtlety" in English means: The quality of being subtle; a fine or delicate detail or distinction., A subtle remark or idea., The ability to notice or understand small differences or details..

The phonetic transcription of "subtlety" is /ˈsʌtəlti/ in British English and /ˈsʌtəlti/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "subtlety": delicacy, refinement, finesse, distinction, nuance.

Example usage of "subtlety": "I admired the subtlety of her plan.". More examples on the page.