Flummox: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable for informal contexts, especially when talking about situations that leave someone utterly baffled or perplexed. It's a casual way to express strong confusion.

• The complex puzzle completely flummoxed me.
• She was flummoxed by the unexpected turn of events.

Commonly used in everyday language, both formally and informally, to describe a state where one is unable to think clearly or lacks understanding.

• The instructions were written in a way that completely confused me.
• Her contradictory statements confused everyone at the meeting.

Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a situation or information that causes someone to be deeply perplexed and unable to understand something.

• The sudden appearance of the deer on the highway bewildered the drivers.
• He was bewildered by the technical jargon in the manual.

Often used in formal contexts to describe being puzzled or confused, especially when facing complex questions or problems.

• The scientist was perplexed by the unexpected results of the experiment.
• His sudden change in behavior perplexed his friends and family.

Used when someone is very confused and does not know how to react or what to do.

• The unexpected turn of events completely flummoxed the seasoned detective.
• She was flummoxed by the complex instructions.

Implies something that confuses people, often a problem or question to be solved.

• The puzzle of how to make the system more efficient took weeks to solve.
• Crossword puzzles are a popular pastime for many.

Describes something that is not understood or known, often used in stories or situations that need to be solved.

• The mystery of the missing jewels baffled everyone.
• He loves reading mystery novels before bed.

Refers to a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand.

• The ancient manuscript remains an enigma to researchers.
• He is an enigma; no one can ever predict his next move.