Word
subdued
Phoneticssub·dued, stress on the second syllable
US/səbˈdud/
UK/sʌbdjˈuːd/
Definitions
01quiet mood
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. unusually quiet and lacking energy, often because you are sad or worried.
adj. characterised by a quiet, reflective, or low-energy emotional state, often following a shock or disappointment.
“The crowd was unusually subdued after their team lost the final match.”
“The atmosphere in the boardroom remained subdued as the directors contemplated the implications of the failed merger.”
Antonyms
02soft light or color
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. soft and not too bright or strong.
adj. not glaring or intense in colour or brightness; having a soft or muted quality.
“The restaurant had subdued lighting to create a romantic atmosphere.”
“She chose a palette of subdued greys and blues for the bedroom to ensure the space felt restful.”
03quiet sound
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. quiet or kept at a low volume.
adj. reduced in volume or intensity; muffled or restrained.
“We could hear the subdued sound of music coming from the apartment next door.”
“The conversation continued in subdued tones so as not to wake the sleeping child in the adjacent room.”
04defeated or controlled
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. brought under control or defeated by force.
adj. having been brought under control, conquered, or suppressed by superior force.
“The rebels were finally subdued after weeks of heavy fighting.”
“The once-defiant population appeared entirely subdued by the presence of the occupying military forces.”
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Subdued colors, muddied with gray tones create a silvery effect.” “Airey recalled that on her first visit as chair to ACE’s London office, “it felt quiet, a little bit subdued.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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