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Definition of subtly

subtly

/ˈsʌt.li/
sub · tly
Adjective:subtle
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subtly Lexical Profile

subtly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a delicate, understated, or precise manner that is difficult to notice, perceive, or analyze immediately.

Example

"The lighting in the theater shifted subtly throughout the final act to reflect the changing mood."

2

In a clever, indirect, or discreet manner that avoids being overly explicit or confrontational.

Example

"During the meeting, she subtly reminded the committee of the approaching budget deadline."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

The 'b' in 'subtly' is completely silent (pronounced 'SUT-lee'), and the root adjective 'subtle' drops its final 'e' before taking the '-ly' suffix, unlike the common misspelling 'subtlely'.

• Rhymes for subtly

• Nearby Words

subtitle
subtle
subtlety
subtly
subtopic
subtotal
subtract

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English adjective 'sotil' or 'subtil' (from Old French 'soutil' and Latin 'subtilis', meaning 'fine, thin, or delicate'), combined with the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Subtly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/subtly
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