1
as in cunning
clever at attaining one's ends by indirect and often deceptive means
used subtle methods of persuasion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of subtle
The bottom has a ruffle hem for a subtle touch of sophistication.
—
Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026
The upgrades, at least from the outside, are surprisingly subtle.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 29 Apr. 2026
The shift is subtle, but its consequences are not.
—Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 29 Apr. 2026
Decor leans equestrian-meets-coastal ranch, with earthy tones, textured fabrics, saddle-leather accents, and subtle nods to the property’s equine history.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for subtle
Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026
The upgrades, at least from the outside, are surprisingly subtle.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 29 Apr. 2026
The shift is subtle, but its consequences are not.
—Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 29 Apr. 2026
Decor leans equestrian-meets-coastal ranch, with earthy tones, textured fabrics, saddle-leather accents, and subtle nods to the property’s equine history.
—Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for subtle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for subtle
Adjective
-
As Michael moves into solo stardom and makes cunning business moves, the film captures how his seemingly naive idealism was also a form of ambition.—
Spencer Kornhaber,
The Atlantic,
24 Apr. 2026
-
Past friends and former associates described him to me as an exceptionally cunning con man, a consummate charmer, and a womanizer.—
Nate Freeman,
Vanity Fair,
3 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Five is nice, but 17 straight is a dynasty unparalleled in City Section history.—
Steve Galluzzo,
Los Angeles Times,
30 Apr. 2026
-
Just the shops and the overall setting is really nice.—
Anne Kadet,
Curbed,
29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
The residence showcases exquisite marble, onyx, lapis lazuli, tiger’s eye, and malachite stonework, accented with 14-karat gold-leaf detailing and silk trim.—
Mark David,
Robb Report,
28 Apr. 2026
-
Those exquisite night flights bring to mind another bunch of Neverlanders longing for home.—
Frank Rizzo,
Variety,
27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Patagonian Scallops Tiny baby button scallops, so cute.—
Alex Beggs,
Bon Appetit Magazine,
25 Apr. 2026
-
Someone says the rats are actually cute — what’s your honest response?—
Zach Schiffman,
Curbed,
24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
While discussing the delicate tone of the show and its balance of being a satire on the Hollywood movie business and a love letter to chasing your dream, Cretton said the creative team focused on character to find their way.—
Borys Kit,
HollywoodReporter,
30 Apr. 2026
-
Also on view are selections from the Macchia series, known for bold color combinations and ruffled edges, and the delicate Seaforms, which evoke underwater life through translucent layers of glass.—
Ginger Crichton,
Midwest Living,
30 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
This reversible option is no exception, with its appealing yellow color and elegant floral pattern.—
Jacqueline Tempera,
Better Homes & Gardens,
25 Apr. 2026
-
With refined decor and an intimate residential ambience, guests will feel like locals checking into an elegant Manhattan townhouse—without sacrificing the white-glove service and amenities of a five-star hotel, of course.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
Brenden Aaronson could not finish a slick Leeds counter, denied by the outstretched boot of Robert Sanchez in the Chelsea goal.—
Beren Cross,
New York Times,
26 Apr. 2026
-
Pretty slick defensive play by the 2025 AL Platinum Glove recipient.—
Jaylon Thompson,
Kansas City Star,
26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
-
These are the finest margins that tight matches like these can be decided on.—
Beren Cross,
New York Times,
27 Apr. 2026
-
On Friday night, Richardson put together his finest effort of the season, reaching 49 feet, 7 inches on his final hop, step and jump at the Escondido Invitational — traditionally the final invitational of the season.—
Steve Brand,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
26 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Subtle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/subtle. Accessed 1 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
