nuanced

adjective

nu·​anced ˈnü-ˌän(t)st 

ˈnyü-;

nü-ˈän(t)st,

nyü-

: having nuances : having or characterized by subtle and often appealingly complex qualities, aspects, or distinctions (as in character or tone)

a nuanced performance

Whenever the movie focusses on Van Doren and Goodwin and Stempel, it treats them as nuanced human beings. But other characters in the film … are sketched less fully.

—Ken Auletta

And in this rare instance, the family-friendly franchise isn't a bland, pabulum compromise but a more inspired, nuanced alternative.

—Mike Flaherty

This more psychologically nuanced self-examination requires that we honestly challenge our beliefs and summon the courage to act on that information, which may lead to fresh ways of thinking about our lives and our goals.

—Camille Sweeney and Josh Gosfield

Synonyms

• delicate
• exact
• fine
• finespun
• hairline
• hairsplitting
• minute
• nice
• refined
• subtle

Examples of nuanced in a Sentence

a nuanced, shaded representation of a hot-button issue that is too often depicted in black and white

a sauce with a nuanced lemon flavor that doesn't overwhelm the taste of the fish

Recent Examples on the Web

Host Janice Sutherland tackles the nuanced pain points around workplace dynamics, age discrimination and the art of reinvention after 40. —Cynthia Pong, Jd, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025

As for whether Russians could buy a top-flight side, that is much more nuanced than a simple yes or no. —Dan Sheldon, The Athletic, 23 Feb. 2025

That fluidity may be why a variety of colors have popped up in unexpected forms this season, from nuanced tailoring and fine Savile Row suits to techy sports gear and cool outerwear. —Tom Stubbs, Robb Report, 23 Feb. 2025

Things are more complex and nuanced than simple black and white in his world. —Bryce Miller, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

nuance + -ed entry 1

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above