* Delicate: Subtle actions or changes are like whispers, barely noticeable but present.
* Understated: Subtlety avoids being overly dramatic or explicit.
* Indirect: Subtle communication often relies on hints, suggestions, or implied meaning.
Here are some examples of how "subtly" is used:
* "She subtly changed the topic to avoid talking about her ex." This means she shifted the conversation without making it obvious.
* "The music subtly shifted from a major key to a minor key, creating a sense of sadness." The change in music was almost unnoticeable, yet it conveyed a new mood.
* "He subtly hinted at his dissatisfaction with the project." He didn't directly complain, but his words implied his feelings.
In contrast to "subtly," words like "blatantly," "obviously," or "directly" would suggest a more overt or explicit approach.