in a minor key

in a minor key

Having a subtle, understated presentation or demeanor. An allusion to the musical key, the phrase is typically used to describe abstract concepts and characteristics. The film, which elegantly examines the very real struggles of everyday people in the modern age, is wise and human in a minor key.
See also: key, minor
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

in a minor key

(especially of a literary work) understated.
1995 Independent He was a moralist in a minor key.
See also: key, minor
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • minor
  • haf
  • friend of Bill W.
  • Joe Sixpack
  • Joe Six-Pack
  • Earth to (someone)
  • earth to someone
  • (as) poor as a Job's turkey
  • straws in (one's) hair
  • end game
References in classic literature
Following on the Odes, we have much written in the same style, more often than not by women, or songs possibly written to be sung by them, always in a minor key, fraught with sadness, yet full of quiet resignation and pathos.
Lute of Jade