We explain what something subtle is, its various meanings and the origin of the term. Also, the characteristics of a subtle person.
What is something subtle?
When we say that something or someone is subtle, or that it acts with subtlety, we are referring to that it is careful, slight, delicate or even difficult to perceive, that is, the opposite of clumsiness, obviousness, coarseness or violence.
These words come from the Latin term subtilis, translatable as "fine", "delicate" or even, figuratively, "ingenious". This word is formed by the prefix sub-, which survives to this day and means "below", and the noun cloth, so the subtle originally referred to the thinnest thread of the fabric, which goes below the warp and therefore is hidden behind the others.
Thus, the word subtle was used not only for that which is fragile, careful and light ("a subtle caress" or "the subtle afternoon light"), but also and figuratively for what acts with precision and discretion, that is, without being noticed right away ("a subtle ambush" or "a subtle accusation").
It must be explained that subtlety is traditionally considered as something positive, close to discretion and grace, and therefore associated with exquisiteness, quality and good workmanship. Therefore, they are synonyms of subtlety the terms: delicacy, finesse, care, lightness, wit and sharpness.
What is a subtle person like?
When we say that a person it is subtle or acts in a subtle way, we mean that it acts and thinks carefully, almost imperceptibly. That applies to the things he does and also to the things he says. Thus, we can say that a person is subtle, for example, if instead of accusing, he insinuates; Instead of getting to the point, speak delicately; and if instead of confronting, he weaves strategies.
The subtlety of someone can be appreciated very clearly when giving bad news: there will be those who prefer frontality, and even roughness, while a subtle person will go little by little and as carefully as possible. This is often interpreted as a sign of sharpness, thoughtfulness, or even intelligence, as a subtle person is usually aware of the damage that a bad comment can cause.
However, this is not synonymous of kindness, far from it. Very bad things can also be done with subtlety. One person can deceive or manipulate another with subtle, delicate, almost innocent comments; can plan a strategy against another in a subtle way, that is, calculated, ingenious and imperceptible; by that we only mean how you would do it.
In short, a subtle person is one who does not act brutally, crudely or frontally, but rather cautiously and delicately, which may well be a sign of his wit and wit.