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subtle

[/ˈsʌtəl/]
adjective
sutil
1. delicate, fine, or precise in a way that is difficult to perceive or describe
There was a subtle difference between the two paintings.
Havia uma diferença sutil entre os dois quadros.
2. not obvious or easily noticed; understated
She made a subtle hint about the surprise party.
Ela fez uma insinuação sutil sobre a festa surpresa.
3. cunning or crafty in an understated way
His subtle approach to negotiation was highly effective.
Sua abordagem sutil na negociação foi muito eficaz.
4. requiring or involving careful thought or attention
This is a subtle problem that requires careful analysis.
Este é um problema sutil que requer análise cuidadosa.
Synonyms
delicatefineunderstatedrefinednuancedfaintslight
Antonyms
obviousblatantovertbluntcrudepronounced

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
sutil
standard usage throughout Brazil
Portugal
subtil
alternative spelling used in Portugal; pronunciation and meaning identical
São Paulo
sutil
standard usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

a subtle touch - um toque sutil
subtle as a brick - tão óbvio quanto um tijolo na cabeça
lost in the subtlety - perdido nas sutilezas
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