subtle
ˈsʌt(ə)l/
adjective
adjective: subtle; comparative adjective: subtler; superlative adjective: subtlest
-
1.(especially of a change or distinction) so delicate or precise as to be difficult to analyse or describe.“his language expresses rich and subtle meanings”
synonyms: fine, fine-drawn, ultra-fine, nice, overnice, minute, precise, narrow, tenuous; More antonyms: crude -
capable of making fine distinctions.“a subtle mind”
synonyms: astute, keen, quick, fine, acute, sharp, razor-like, razor-sharp, rapier-like, canny, shrewd,aware, perceptive, discerning, sensitive, discriminating, penetrating, sagacious, wise,clever, intelligent, skilful, artful; More antonyms: slow-witted -
arranged in an ingenious and elaborate way.“the German plan was simple yet subtle”
-
2.making use of clever and indirect methods to achieve something.“he tried a more subtle approach”
Origin
Middle English (also in the sense ‘not easily understood’): from Old French sotil, from Latin subtilis .
How my heart sings 