Have you ever admired people who articulate English words correctly? That could be you if you put in the time to practice and learn; anyone can be a pro in English speaking and writing with dedication. Start your journey by learning the subdued definition, meaning, and usage.
The term “subdued” means restrained in quality of style. In a sentence, the word is mainly used when someone describes something like a sound that has lowered its intensity. For example, use the word when talking about loud things that are now low in volume.
If you aim to become a pro, you might get tempted to include the new words you came across in your everyday use. But this is not a good idea if you do not know how to use the words correctly. So take time to understand subdued before you include it in your vocabulary; read on to learn everything you need to know about the word subdued.
What Is The Definition Of Subdued?
Subdued means in a softer tone or not excessively lively or showy. Here the word shows that someone or something is not vibrant or glaring. In some situations, it might get characterized by relative gloom or sadness.
When something or someone is “subdued,” they have a gentle or pacific nature. Use the word to describe people that show little enthusiasm. These are the people who are always solemn in the way that they appear.
Here are some example sentences:
- I do not know why Lean looks Subdued tonight.
- Tabitha seems a bit subdued to me.
- Did anyone notice that the receptionist was in a subdued mood?
Other Meanings Of Subdued And Related Questions
Subdued also means “quieted and brought under control.” You can also use this word to mean not glaring or brilliant. Another common meaning is “on a softened note.” Sometimes, the term can also mean “not bright or harsh.”
With the understanding of several meanings, let us now answer some of the questions you need to know about this word. Here we go!
Does Subdued Mean Low-Key?
Subdue and low-key describe something or someone restrained in style and quality. Though the words are synonyms, they differ because the word subdued has numerous meanings beyond “restrained in style and quality.”
Does Subdue Mean Sedated?
Most people who come across these words for the first time assume that they are synonyms and can apply interchangeably. However, that is not the case. It is because both the words subdued and sedate might mean to cause calmness or quietness. Therefore, these words have a contract meaning. Subdue means to calm by conquering, overpowering, crushing, or forcing submission, while sedated means to cause calm by administering a sedative.
Does Subdued Mean Subsidize?
Two words that are often confused are subdued and subsidized. However, these words do not have the same meaning. The word subdued is characterized by repressed thoughts, desires, or actions. On the other hand, the word subsidized means paying part of the cost of producing something with the aim of keeping the price low. Organizations or government bodies mainly do this to businesses to protect the final consumers from high prices.
Is Subdue a Negative Word?
The word subdued is usually taken as a negative word. By its definition, this word means showing little enthusiasm or being subjected to some form of oppression. More so, some consider this word to mean force to be quiet or brought under control. So, when using this word in your sentences, know that it has a negative connotation. So, you should not use this word in favorable settings.
What Is The Meaning Of Subdued?
You can also use the word subdued to mean lacking in originality, variation, spirit, or energy. Another meaning is being in a plain and undamped appearance. From this meaning, you can tell that this is the type of word that applies in both formal and informal settings.
Here are some example sentences:
- When Steve entered the room, the talk in the room was subdued.
- The bride’s dress was dark gray, and she looked suitably subdued
- I have noticed that you are very subdued. What is going on with you?
- A monochrome palette is subdued compared to a vibrant one.
Synonyms Of Subdued
Synonyms have the same meanings and can apply interchangeably. But note that synonyms usually differ depending on the context. Here are the synonyms of the word subdued.
- Restrained
- Withdrawn
- Serious
- Somber
- Dull
- Hushed
- Weak
- Sad
Antonyms Of Subdued
Antonyms are words that have a contrary meaning to the word you are learning. Learning antonyms helps you to expand your vocabulary. Besides, it enhances your writing skills and vocabulary. These are the antonyms of subdued;
- Cheerful
- Loud
- Cheap
- Bright
- Excited
- Powerful
- Colorful
Rhymes Of Subdued
Rhyming words have familiarity in sounds, either at the end of the word or throughout the word. Here are examples of words that rhyme with subdued.
- Neighborhood
- Crude
- Commute
- Latitude
- Priesthood
- Renewed
- Multitude
- Lawsuit
How To Use Subdued In A Sentence
The word subdued has different meanings that suit different contexts. Besides, this word also applies as an adjective and a verb. Use it as an adjective to mean someone or something that lacks energy, drive, motivation, or enthusiasm.
How To Use Subdued As A Verb
You can use the word subdued as a verb in various ways. One of the ways is when talking about having victory or achieving something. You can also use it as a past tense of overcome or bring under control. Also, to mean intimidating, to control in awe, or injure someone’s dignity. How you use this word depends on the context at hand.
Different Word Forms Of Subdued
Let’s now shift our focus to the different word forms of the word subdued. Learning these forms will help you better understand the word and know how to use it in different sentence settings. Here is our list.
- Subduedly (adverb)
- Subdual (noun)
- Subduer (noun)
10 Examples Of Subdued In A Sentence
One of the vital steps of learning a new word is through constructing sentences. However, creating sentences from a new term you have just learned is not always easy. Luckily, you can quickly learn how to use the words by reading sentences with these words and applying them in various contexts. Here are ten sentence examples with the word subdued.
- His mother’s soothing words subdued his fears.
- The medication the doctor recommended was what subdued his worries about the disease.
- Breakfast in this facility is mostly a subdued affair.
- When the experience was all over, I felt strangely subdued.
- When she started working, Missy was a bit subdued, but she has lived up these days.
- His voice subdued when he was talking to his daughter.
- There was a subdued atmosphere at the school during the interview.
- Susan seemed rather subdued after the movie.
- I wondered who my sister was talking to on the phone; that made Maxwell feel subdued.
- The problem with the show was the subdued light that made Brenda appear pale.
How Do You Spell Subdued?
The best way to spell “subdued” is “S.U.B.D.U.E.D.”
Subdued is one of those words that might seem easy to spell until you try it. The word has various phoenix sounds, and you need to take the time to learn the best way to spell it by trying to memorize the word. You can also practice spelling by writing the word repeatedly.
How Do You Pronounce Subdued?
The best way to pronounce “subdued” is “suhb.dood” if you are using the American pronunciation or “suhb.dyood” if you prefer the British pronunciation.
When learning English, it is wise to take the time to determine the diction that you will use. That way, you will have an easy time learning the pronunciations. If you mix up the diction, you will likely confuse yourself and those listening to you.
How Many Syllables Are In Subdued?
The word subdued has two syllables divided as sub and dued. The stressed syllable of the word is “dued.”
Note that words with one or two syllables are easy to write, pronounce and memorize. This is one of the English words that are easy to pronounce and use.
History & Etymology Of Subdued
The word subdued is the past participle of the word “subdue.” So to learn the history of this word, you need to learn the history of the word “subdue.” The word “subdue” is from the Latin word “subducere,” which means to lead away, carry off, or draw away.
The French later borrowed the word and used it as “soudure,” which means to deceive or to seduce. The term was later introduced in the English language as subdue.
When Was Subdued First Used?
The first time to use this word in English was in 1785. Its first meaning was “lacking in intensity of strength.”
Conclusion
The key to learning is practicing the words you have learned. This exercise might be tedious at first, but with the right strategy, you will learn several words and improve your vocabulary. The best way to learn about the word subdued is to focus more on the subdued definition, meaning, and usage. Also, write down the word and practice spelling and pronouncing it often.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.