adjective. A subtle person cleverly uses indirect methods to achieve something. I even began to exploit him in subtle ways. Synonyms: crafty, cunning, sly, designing More Synonyms of subtle. subtly adverb [ADV with v]
Similarly one may ask, is it Subtlely or subtly?
There are two tricks to the word subtly: first, when you add the ly to the word subtle, the e gets dropped. Second, don’t confuse subtly with subtlety, a noun meaning “the state of being subtle.”
Also to know is, what is an example of subtle?
The definition of something that is subtle is an indirect or very small distinction when comparing two things or ideas. An example of subtle is adding a new spice to a recipe resulting in a very small change in the dish’s flavor. Operating in a hidden, usually injurious way; insidious.
What is the etymology of the word subtle?
Subtle comes ultimately from a Latin pair: the prefix sub-, meaning “under,” and tela, meaning “web.” The two were joined in Latin subtilis, meaning “finely woven.” The word was literal; it was originally a weaving term. … The “b” spellings that were used were a nod to the Latin subtilis.
What is the opposite of subtly?
Opposite of done or made with care and precision. rough. coarse. hasty. crude.
Where can I use subtle?
Subtle sentence example
- It was a subtle shade of gray. …
- Xander saw the subtle signal Damian gave his brother. …
- The dish was subtle in flavor. …
- There were subtle differences between the parties regarding living wills. …
- His subtle magic brushed by her, through her. …
- He gave subtle hints, which I totally failed to notice.