A subculture isn't necessarily independent or functionally separate of the main culture, and can be a sub group of a sub group, like a sect of a minority religion or ethnic group. Definition of a true subculture can be a very sloppy, facile process. The word is sometimes used to make a distinction among fashion trends or superficial characteristics of groups. In its true sense, the word can represent a serious social issue, where a subculture may be at war or severely divergent with a main culture.