subtle

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Human eyes and brains are highly sensitive to subtle changes in colour, texture, and other surface characteristics," it says.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

This is done by tracking subtle movements in the host star and measuring the gravitational pull exerted by the orbiting object.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

Bear markets rarely emerge without warning, not that one is necessarily at hand, but subtle signs of distribution often build quietly before becoming more pronounced.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

Cardamom carries a subtle floral note and a quiet citrus edge that sharpens the cinnamon without competing with it.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2026

Padva’s costumes and Mr. Barris’s feats of engineering are obvious, the mark of the Burgess sisters is more subtle, though it permeates almost every aspect of the circus.

From "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern