su
bt
ly
1
in a way that is faint, delicate, or so slight that it is hard to notice, explain, or define
- The lighting subtly changes as the mood of the play evolves.
- Her expression subtly shifted when she heard the name.
- The painting subtly blends light and shadow to create depth.
- His voice subtly grew more tense as the story went on.
- The music subtly intensified without drawing attention to itself.
Synonyms:
2
in a clever or indirect way that aims to influence or achieve something without being obvious
- He subtly hinted at needing a raise without saying it outright.
- She subtly redirected the conversation to avoid the topic.
- The ad campaign subtly appealed to nostalgia without being explicit.
- He subtly manipulated the facts to make his case seem stronger.
- They subtly encouraged her to apply, knowing she wouldn't unless pushed.
Synonyms: