Meaning & use

nuanced

adjective·Academic

Marked by subtle distinctions or shades of meaning, rather than being simple or extreme.

See it in a sentence

The professor gave a nuanced explanation that acknowledged strengths on both sides of the debate.

Her performance was nuanced, capturing the character's quiet doubts as well as her confidence.

A note on using this word

Frequently praises analysis or art for avoiding oversimplification; overusing it as a vague compliment is a common criticism.

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

simplisticcrude

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