Confuse: meaning, definitions and examples

This word can be used in everyday situations where something is not clear or hard to understand. It's a general term.

• The instructions confused me
• The plot of the movie was confusing

This word is suitable when someone is completely and utterly puzzled. It's often used in situations where someone feels lost or overwhelmed by something.

• The sudden change in plans bewildered her
• He was bewildered by the strange request

This is used when someone is puzzled or confused, especially when considering complex or intricate problems.

• She was perplexed by the math problem
• The mystery of the missing keys perplexed him for days

This is often used when someone is extremely puzzled or cannot understand something at all, usually in a more serious or technical context.

• The scientist was baffled by the unexpected results
• His behavior baffles me

This word is used when someone is unable to think clearly about something because it is complex or unclear.

• The complex instructions confused me.
• Don't start with too many details; it will confuse the audience.

This word often has a negative connotation and is used when someone's thoughts or actions are unclear and disorganized.

• She managed to muddle through the presentation, despite not being fully prepared.
• After the accident, everything seemed like a muddle in his mind.

Used when something is mixed together in a disorganized way, often referring to objects or ideas.

• The papers were all jumbled together on her desk.
• His thoughts were a jumble after the long, tiring day.

Used when someone loses their sense of direction or doesn't know where they are.

• The loud noise disoriented her for a moment.
• The twisting paths of the maze are designed to disorient visitors.

This word is commonly used when someone doesn’t understand something or when things are mixed up. It's often used in everyday situations.

• The instructions confused me.
• I always confuse their names.

Refers to a state of doubt or lack of surety, whether about a decision, situation, or the future. It is often used across various contexts including everyday language, formal writing, and discussions about emotions.

• There is a lot of uncertainty about the future.
• His uncertainty about the answer was evident.

Used in formal or literary contexts to describe a more intense and often intellectual form of confusion. It carries a sense of being deeply puzzled over something complex or difficult.

• The scientist's findings were met with perplexity.
• Her decisions were a source of endless perplexity for her friends.

Used in more formal or descriptive contexts, this word describes a state of being completely puzzled or very confused. It is often associated with a sense of being overwhelmed.

• She looked around in bewilderment.
• His sudden change of plans left everyone in bewilderment.