Subtle Variation is a term used to describe a slight difference in something, often in terms of color or texture. The term can also be used to refer to a small change in the way something is done. The crossword solution for this term is 'NUANCE, ' which is a synonym for subtle variation. NUANCE is a French word meaning 'shading' or 'fine detail, ' and it is often used to describe a subtle difference between two things.