nuance
Say it: NYOO-ahns /ˈnuɑns/ · noun
What “nuance” means
A small difference in meaning, feeling or tone.
More precisely: A subtle difference in meaning, feeling or tone.
Example: “Text messages lose the nuance you'd hear in someone's voice.”
When to use it
When a small detail changes how something feels or sounds, especially in thoughtful conversations about language, art or relationships.
Memory trick
Think of two almost matching colours: the tiny difference is the nuance.
Similar words
subtlety, shade, distinction
Where it comes from
From French nuance, "shade of color."
Quick check
Both replies say yes, but one sounds eager and the other reluctant. What does that small difference show?
nuance or contradiction?
Show the answer
nuance
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