1
as in cunning
clever at attaining one's ends by indirect and often deceptive means
used subtle methods of persuasion
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in nice
made or done with extreme care and accuracy
the subtle strokes of the painter's brush
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in exquisite
satisfying or pleasing because of fineness or mildness
a subtle suggestion of the Near East in the soup's flavoring
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of subtle
Your 9th House of Higher Learning awakens as Venus squares vulnerable Chiron, with Chiron in your subtler 12th house.
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Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 11 Jan. 2026
On TikTok and Instagram, male creators post step-by-step makeup routines, product breakdowns and before-and-after results that often emphasize subtle changes rather than dramatic looks.
—Luke Fountain, CNBC, 10 Jan. 2026
The lighting needed to be subtle, warm and soft.
—Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 10 Jan. 2026
Look to Artwork Artwork can act as a subtle way to introduce this color trend into your decor without a total commitment.
—Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for subtle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for subtle
Adjective
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Fueled by vengeance and cunning ambition, Ashur rises from betrayal and bloodshed to seize power, gouging out a place for the House of Ashur in a new arena full of violence, desire, and twisted loyalty.—
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The elaborate scheme, masterminded by members of four Mafia families in collusion with celebrity athletes, ensnared unsuspecting victims, bleeding them of over $7 million through cunning deception, prosecutors said in the indictment.—
Adjective
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The suede upper is also a nice departure from classic leather on other styles.—
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Monogramming linens and towels is always a nice touch.—
Adjective
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The perfect balance for a sport that jostles between exquisite and excruciating.—
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As with Sátántangó, Tarr devised exquisite tracking shots that seemed to float through János’ unhappy universe, delivering one knockout image after another.—
Adjective
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Ariana Grande made a cute face while taking a pic with Steven Spielberg.—
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Jump on the trend early with this cute, hands-free Michael Kors crossbody bag.—
Adjective
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This delicate balance allows massive galaxies to stay dormant for billions of years, even when star-forming material is present.—
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Ballerina styles, those with lace-up construction, are emerging as a standout, adding a delicate, fashion-forward touch while remaining practical.—
Adjective
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Her hairstylist gave tendril lovers an idea for a whole new way to wear one, tucking Grande's bangs behind a section of hair left loose not from her hairline but a bit farther back—still elegant, but a bit more playful and creative.—
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Lopez accessorized with diamond earrings and wore her hair in an elegant updo.—
Adjective
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The slick material keeps chafing to a minimum during workouts, and the brushed inside is so soft against the skin and helps keep cold air out and your body heat in.—
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Between the melting ice under the court and heavy rain Thursday night in Chicago, condensation created a slick and dangerous playing surface.—
Adjective
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The American brand has been manufacturing customizable stationery and fine leather goods since 1969.—
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That's fine by Rodgers, who knows a thing or two about sneaking in the playoffs and going on a run.—
Cite this Entry
“Subtle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subtle. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
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