adverb C1 Advanced Uncommon

subtly

SUHT-lee

Subtly (adverb) means In a way that is delicate or not obvious. Example: “She subtly changed the subject before things got awkward.”

adverb

In a way that is delicate or not obvious.

"She subtly changed the subject before things got awkward."

"The lighting was subtly adjusted to make the room feel warmer."

How to use subtly

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDone in a delicate, hard-to-notice way.

Common mistake

Note the spelling — it keeps the silent "b" from subtle: subtly, not "subtley."

more subtly comparative, most subtly superlative

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Can you complete this real example?

She _____ changed the subject before things got awkward.

From subtle plus -ly.

What does “subtly” mean?

The word “subtly” means in a way that is delicate or not obvious. In plain terms, done in a delicate, hard-to-notice way.

How do you pronounce “subtly”?

“Subtly” is pronounced SUHT-lee (/ˈsʌt.l̩.li/ in IPA).

How do you use “subtly” in a sentence?

Here is “subtly” used in a sentence: “She subtly changed the subject before things got awkward.”

What part of speech is “subtly”?

“Subtly” is an adverb.

Is “subtly” a common word?

“Subtly” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.