Subtle
Example: Subtle differences affect interpretation significantly
Definition
"Subtle" describes differences or distinctions that are so small or delicate that they are not immediately obvious, requiring careful observation or thought to notice or understand, as in subtle differences significantly affecting interpretation.
Etymology
The word "subtle" originates from the Latin word 'subtilis', meaning fine, delicate, or precise. It entered English through Old French in the late Middle Ages. Did you know? The term originally carried the sense of being finely woven or intricate, which perfectly fits its modern use describing delicate distinctions.
Learn to use this word actively
"Subtle" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - (C2) - set 1", containing 95 commonly used words.
Would you like to not only understand these words, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select English as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account
