Both Uses of
subtle
in
To Kill a Mockingbird
- I was beginning to notice a subtle change in my father these days, that came out when he talked with Aunt Alexandra.
p. 209..8subtle = slightly noticeable
- Until my father explained it to me later, I did not understand the subtlety of Tom's predicament: he would not have dared strike a white woman under any circumstances and expect to live long, so he took the first opportunity to run— a sure sign of guilt.
p. 260..9 *subtlety = non-obvious nature
Definition:
-
(subtle as in: a subtle difference or thinker) not obvious, but understandable by someone with adequate sensitivity and relevant knowledge (perhaps depending upon fine distinctions)
or:
capable of understanding things that require sensitivity and relevant knowledge (perhaps understanding fine distinctions)