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adjective · C1 · often · UK/US

subtle

subtle

Meaning of subtle

English

not obvious; delicate and understated, like a soft colour

Deutsch

fein und kaum merklich, z. B. eine leise Farbe oder ein leichter Duft

subtle

Pronunciation

British English
/ˈsʌtəl/
American English
/ˈsʌtəl/

subtle with German translation

subtle usage examples

🇬🇧English→🇩🇪German

The pattern is very subtle.

Das Muster ist sehr subtil.

🇬🇧English→🇩🇪German

She wears subtle jewelry.

Sie trägt subtilen Schmuck.

subtle synonyms

Related word breakdowns

What's the difference between subtle, understated, muted, discreet, refined, elegant, modest, and minimalist

🇬🇧English

Elegantly simple, about style

C1often

ENShe wore an understated dress that still looked elegant.

🇬🇧English

Soft or dull: colours, sounds

B2often

ENThe room is painted in muted shades of green.

D
🇬🇧English
discreet

Small and not attracting attention

B2often

ENBe discreet about the surprise party details.

Advanced: broader words

🇬🇧English

Elegant and cultured

C1often

ENThe restaurant offers refined flavours and attentive service.

🇬🇧English

Graceful and stylish

C1very often

ENShe chose an elegant solution to the problem.

🇬🇧English

Simple, not showy or revealing

B2very often

ENShe was modest about her achievements.

M
🇬🇧English
minimalist

Design style with very few details

B2often

ENThey prefer a minimalist interior with clean lines and little clutter.

Learn by topic

subtle belongs to the topic "Style and Taste →". Start with a short set of 1 word so the word is easier to remember in context.

Related words and lists for subtle

Questions about this word

subtle meaning: what does it mean?

not obvious; delicate and understated, like a soft colour

subtle pronunciation: how do you pronounce it?

subtle is pronounced as /ˈsʌtəl/. Audio is available on this page when the word has a recording.

subtle definition and sentence examples: how is it used in a sentence?

Das Muster ist sehr subtil. Translation: The pattern is very subtle.

Is subtle part of Style and Taste vocabulary?

Yes, subtle can be learned in the Style and Taste topic. This semantic link helps build related word lists and topic-based practice.

Is subtle part of Clothing and Fashion vocabulary?

Yes, subtle can be learned in the Clothing and Fashion topic. This semantic link helps build related word lists and topic-based practice.

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