How to pronounce subtly
Say it like SUHT-uh-lee. Subtly has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUHT).
VoiceSpeed
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce subtly. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
US American/ˈsʌtəli/SUHT-uh-lee
UK British/ˈsʌtli/SUHT-lee
- SUHT
- uh
- lee
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Subtly pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SUHTSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- leeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of subtly
- American English uses 3 syllables and British English 2.
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: SUHT-lee.
What does subtly mean?
adverb
- With subtleness, in a subtle manner; with cleverness rather than brute force.
Where does subtly come from?
From Middle English sotilly; equivalent to subtle + -ly.
Questions about saying subtly
How do you pronounce subtly?
Say SUHT-uh-lee. The American pronunciation is /ˈsʌtəli/. In British English it is /ˈsʌtli/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in subtly?
Subtly has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUHT). Broken into parts: SUHT · uh · lee.
Is subtly pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. American English uses 3 syllables and British English 2. The British form is /ˈsʌtli/ (SUHT-lee).