French Conversation · Level 84
59 words
French word
nuancer
Pronunciation
IPA/nɥɑ̃se/
Meaning
- verbtone down
Example
Il faut nuancer ton propos pour ne pas blesser.
You need to tone down what you are saying so you do not hurt anyone.
More examples
Elle a nuancé sa critique pour rester polie.
She softened her criticism to stay polite.
Core concept
Adding fine shades to a sharp statement or color so its boundaries become more precise and less absolute.
Common phrases
nuancer une critique
temper a criticism
nuancer son discours
temper his speech
nuancer une réponse
qualify a response
Similar words
adoucir: To make feelings or language less harsh and more gentle.
atténuer: To lessen an effect or degree of intensity.
modérer: To tone down the strength of forceful wording.
Definition in French
Introduire des distinctions subtiles dans une affirmation, une remarque ou une teinte, de façon à rendre l'ensemble moins tranché et plus précis.
Word origin
French nuancer is formed from the noun nuance, which denotes a subtle difference or gradation in meaning, color, or expression.
Usage tips
- Nuancer takes a direct object, as in nuancer son propos, and often means adding qualifications rather than simply making a statement gentler.