subtle

Từ điển Oxford Advanced Learner 8th

sub·tle [subtle subtler subtlest] BrE [ˈsʌtl] NAmE [ˈsʌtl] adjective (sub·tler, sub·tlest) more subtle is also common
1. (often approving)not very noticeable or obvious
•subtle colours/flavours/smells, etc.
•There are subtle differences between the two versions.
•The fragrance is a subtle blend of jasmine and sandalwood.
•She's been dropping subtle hints about what she'd like as a present.
2. (of a person or their behaviour)behaving in a clever way, and using indirect methods, in order to achieve sth
•I decided to try a more subtle approach.
3. organized in a clever way
•a subtle plan
•a subtle use of lighting in the play
4. good at noticing and understanding things
•The job required a subtle mind.
Derived Word: ↑subtly

Word Origin:
Middle English (also in the sense ‘not easily understood’): from Old French sotil, from Latin subtilis.

Example Bank:
•infinitely subtle tonal gradations
•making infinitely subtle distinctions
•For a natural glow to your skin mix a subtle shade of blusher with loose powder.
•Her paintings are characterized by sweeping brush strokes and subtle colours.

• Từ đồng nghĩa / Synonyms:
  insidious, pernicious, elusive