Confound: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when something completely surprises or confuses someone, often because it goes against their expectations. It has a slightly stronger impact than some of the other words on the list.

• His incredible performance confounded all the critics.
• The magician's trick confounded the audience.

This word is used when someone is very confused and uncertain about what to do. It's often used to describe a situation where someone feels lost.

• The new city map bewildered all the tourists.
• The technical jargon in the manual bewildered me.

This word is often used to describe being completely unable to understand something. It suggests a stronger sense of confusion than 'puzzle' but not as intense as 'confound'.

• The complex instructions baffled everyone in the room.
• Her sudden change in behavior completely baffled her friends.

This word indicates a state of confusion that makes it hard to make sense of something. It is a bit stronger than 'puzzle' but not as strong as 'baffle' or 'confound'.

• The scientist was perplexed by the unexpected results.
• Her cryptic message perplexed me.

This word is often used when someone is curious and confused about something. It’s a milder form of confusion compared to the other words.

• The strange noise puzzled the dog.
• The math problem puzzled the students.

Use this word when someone or something causes confusion or mixes things up in a surprising way. It can be used in both neutral and negative contexts.

• The magician's tricks always confound the audience
• The sudden change in plans confounded everyone

Use this term when you want to formally prove that a statement or theory is incorrect or false. It's often used in academic or legal discussions.

• The lawyer refuted the witness's testimony
• The study aims to refute common misconceptions

Best used when you want to show that a statement, theory, or belief is incorrect or false with evidence or proof.

• The scientist aimed to disprove the old hypothesis
• The results of the experiment disprove the previous research

This word is used when a statement or action goes against or disagrees with something that has been said or done. Often used in arguments or discussions.

• His story contradicts the evidence we have
• She hates when people contradict her opinions

This word is used to nullify or make something legally or logically void, often in a formal or official context.

• The contract was invalidated due to a clerical error
• His argument was invalidated by the new evidence

This word is typically used when someone or something causes confusion or surprise, often leading to a failure in understanding or explanation. It can also carry a slightly stronger and more dramatic connotation compared to others.

• The magician's trick confounded the audience
• Her unexpected reply confounded his initial assumptions

This word is used when describing a state of being puzzled or confused, often implying a deeper level of intellectual or emotional disorientation. It tends to have a more formal tone.

• The scientist faced the problem with great perplexity
• Her perplexity was evident as she tried to understand the complex puzzle

Primarily used when someone is very puzzled or confused, often to the point of being unable to think clearly. This word is a suitable choice when depicting a state of intense disorientation.

• She stared at the strange device in complete bewilderment
• The sudden change in plans left everyone in bewilderment

Used when referring to a state of confusion, disorder, or a mix-up. It often implies a mess or a situation that is difficult to make sense of.

• The instructions for the new software left him in a muddle
• Their finances were in a complete muddle after the unexpected expenses