Confusing: meaning, definitions and examples

Appropriate when something lacks clarity or is difficult to understand due to complexity or unclear explanations.

• The instructions for assembling the furniture were confusing
• The new rules were confusing for many employees

Describes something that causes confusion due to its complexity, often making one feel overwhelmed.

• The array of options on the menu was bewildering
• Entering the enormous library for the first time was a bewildering experience

Refers to something that causes someone to feel puzzled or confused due to its complexity or unexpected nature.

• The paradox presented in the book was perplexing
• The unusual weather patterns were perplexing to meteorologists

Used when something is difficult to understand or solve, usually in a context where a solution is expected.

• The puzzle was very puzzling to solve
• It was puzzling how the cat managed to escape from the locked room

Used when something is exceptionally hard to understand or explain, often implying a sense of frustration.

• The sudden change in his behavior was baffling
• The scientist found the lack of results in the experiment baffling

When something is mysterious or hard to understand, often hinting at something deeper or hidden.

• The magician's trick was truly mystifying
• She found the ancient symbols on the artifact mystifying