WORDS

sub·tle

adj \ˈsə-t^əl\

sub·tler sub·tlest

Definition of SUBTLE

1

a : delicate, elusive subtle fragrance> b : difficult to understand or perceive : obscure <subtle differences in sound>

2

a : perceptive, refined subtle moral sense> b : having or marked by keen insight and ability to penetrate deeply and thoroughly subtle scholar>

3

a : highly skillful : expert subtle craftsman> b : cunningly made or contrived : ingenious

4

: artful, crafty subtle rogue>

5

: operating insidiously <subtle poisons>

— sub·tle·ness noun

— sub·tly adverb

Examples of SUBTLE

1. a subtle difference in meaning between the words
2. Racial discrimination still exists, only now it's subtler than it once was.
3. When it comes to giving criticism, sometimes it's best to take a subtle approach.
4. He didn't seem to understand my subtle hints.
5. It was her subtle way of telling me to mind my own business.
6. She has a subtle mind.
   

Related to SUBTLE

Synonyms: beguiling, cagey, crafty, cunning, cute, designing, devious, dodgy, foxy, guileful, scheming, shrewd, slick, sly, artful, tricky, wily

Antonyms: artless, guileless, ingenuous, innocent, undesigning

from Marriam-Webster Online