Two meanings of the word subtle given by worknik.com
adj. Difficult to understand; abstruse: an argument whose subtle point was lost on her opponent.
adj. Able to make fine distinctions: a subtle mind.
I am confused how to use this word. For me these two meanings look like just opposite.
If a person is having difficulty in understanding, then he wouldn't be able to make fine distinction
or
If someone is facing difficulty in making fine distinction, it means he has not understood it properly.
Please explain how to use this word with example if possible.
Best Answer
Subtle comes from the French subtil, from latin subtilis meaning delicate, thin, that can penetrate (so thin it is).
Something can be difficult to understand because its meaning is thin, imperceptible. Someone who is subtle, has such a subtle penetrating mind that he can understand difficult things.