Definition

Having a delicate or understated quality; not obvious or easily noticeable.

Example

The artist's use of color was subtler than in her previous works.

Conversation

I really enjoyed that movie we watched last night.

Me too! The plot had some subtler hints that made it interesting.

Yeah, I didn't catch all of them on the first watch.

Same here! I think it deserves a second viewing to really get everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subtler → It is formed from "subtle" (from Old French *subtil*, meaning fine or delicate) and "-er" (meaning one who or that which). The word "subtler" refers to something that is more fine or delicate in nature, often in a nuanced or refined way.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'more fine' or 'more delicate' — 'subtle' describes a fine quality, and '-er' indicates a comparison, making 'subtler' mean more so.

Visually Confused Words