Subtle ( adjective , verb )

(As an adjective)

Subtle ( adjective )

1. So delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe.
2. Difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze.
3. Not obvious or easily noticeable.

Origin:

From middle english sotil, from old french sotil, from latin subtilis.

Examples:

1. The subtle nuances of the painting were lost on the casual observer.
2. The subtle flavor of the dish was a combination of herbs and spices.
3. The subtle changes in her behavior went unnoticed by her friends.
4. He made a subtle move towards the door, signaling that it was time to leave.
5. The subtle shift in the wind direction could mean a change in the weather.

(As a verb)

Subtle ( verb )

1. So delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyze or describe.
2. Difficult to detect or grasp by the mind or analyze.
3. Not obvious or easily noticeable.

Origin:

From middle english sotil, from old french sotil, from latin subtilis.

Examples:

1. The subtle nuances of the painting were lost on the casual observer.
2. The subtle flavor of the dish was a combination of herbs and spices.
3. The subtle changes in her behavior went unnoticed by her friends.
4. He made a subtle move towards the door, signaling that it was time to leave.
5. The subtle shift in the wind direction could mean a change in the weather.