Definitions and Examples of subtle, discreet, hidden
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Not immediately obvious or noticeable; requiring close attention or careful observation to detect.
Example
The artist used subtle shades of blue and green to create a calming effect in the painting.
Careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, especially in order to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
Example
She was discreet about her personal life and never discussed it with her colleagues.
Kept out of sight; concealed.
Example
The treasure was hidden in a secret compartment behind the bookshelf.
Key Differences: subtle vs discreet vs hidden
- 1Subtle refers to something that is not immediately obvious or noticeable, while barefaced refers to something that is obvious and undisguised.
- 2Discreet refers to being careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, while barefaced implies a lack of concern for consequences or social norms.
- 3Hidden refers to something that is kept out of sight or concealed, while barefaced implies a lack of concealment or disguise.
Effective Usage of subtle, discreet, hidden
- 1Enhance Communication: Use subtle, discreet, and hidden to describe things that are not immediately obvious or noticeable.
- 2Show Diplomacy: Incorporate antonyms in conversations to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
- 3Enrich Writing: Utilize these antonyms in narratives to create suspense and intrigue.
Remember this!
The antonyms have distinct nuances: Subtle refers to something that is not immediately obvious, discreet refers to being careful and circumspect, and hidden refers to something that is kept out of sight. Use these words to enhance communication, show diplomacy in conversations, and enrich writing by creating suspense and intrigue.
