The meaning of SUBTLETY is the quality or state of being subtle. How to use subtlety in a sentence.

subtlety noun (BEING HARD TO NOTICE) Add to word list [ U ] the quality or state of being subtle or hard to notice:

Definition of subtlety noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Subtlety is the ability to notice and recognize things which are not obvious, especially small differences between things. She analyses herself with great subtlety.

Dec 14, 2025 · subtlety (countable and uncountable, plural subtleties) (uncountable) The quality of being subtle. The quality of being scarcely noticeable or difficult to discern. (of things) quotations the …

sub•tle•ty /ˈsʌtəlti/ n., pl. -ties. [uncountable] the quality or state of being subtle: Such subtlety is not his usual way of acting. something subtle, as a fine point or detail not easy to see or …

SUBTLETY definition: the state or quality of being subtle. See examples of subtlety used in a sentence.

1. The quality or state of being subtle. 2. Something subtle, especially a nicety of thought or a fine distinction.

Subtlety is the quality of being understated, delicate, or nuanced. You can really appreciate the subtlety of your gothic friend's art if you can distinguish among many different shades of black. The Latin root …

When subtle came to first be used in Middle English its meaning was very much in this same lineage. It meant "perceptive, refined," and was used to describe people known for their clear thinking—such as …