C1adverbartslanguage
US/ˈsʌt.li/
UK/ˈsʌt.li/
in a slight or clever way that is not obvious or easy to notice
In context
The two paintings look the same, but the colors are subtly different.
The ad subtly suggests that you will be happier if you buy the car.
The designer subtly updated the classic áo dài with modern fabrics.
Words that go with subtly
adverb + adjective
- subtly differentEach batch of fish sauce tastes subtly different.
adverb + verb
- subtly changedThe company subtly changed its logo last year.
- subtly suggestThe final scene subtly suggests that she survived.
- subtly influenceBackground music in shops can subtly influence what we buy.
- subtly alterSmall changes in lighting can subtly alter the mood of a painting.
- subtly shiftPublic opinion has subtly shifted over the past decade.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The colors changed subtley.Correct: The colors changed subtly.