What does the word "subtle" imply?

The word "subtle" implies something that is hardly noticeable, delicate, or indirect in nature. It often refers to a quality or characteristic that is not immediately obvious but can be perceived with closer observation or thought. Subtle can describe nuances in flavor, meaning, or expression that require a keen sense to detect. This contrasts with terms like "very noticeable," "overt," and "obvious," which all suggest a conspicuousness that is inherently opposite to the idea of subtlety. Thus, the understanding that something is subtle involves recognizing its understated presence rather than demanding immediate attention.