nuance
noun/verb
A subtle difference in or shade of meaning, expression, or sound; to give nuances to.
Etymology
From French nuance meaning "shade, subtlety," from nuer (to shade), from nue (cloud), from Latin nubes (cloud), suggesting subtle gradations like cloud colors.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The translator captured every nuance of the author's writing style."
- 2.
"His speech lacked nuance, presenting complex issues in black and white terms."
- 3.
"She appreciated the nuances of the wine's flavor profile."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
The connection between clouds and nuance is poetic - just as clouds show infinite subtle variations in color and form, nuances represent the subtle gradations that give depth to meaning.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 6 letters (N, U, A, N, C, E)
Scrabble Value: 8 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "NUANCE" appears in many related words.
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