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Mystified Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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mystified

[หˆmษชstษ™หŒfaษชd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Utterly puzzled or confused; perplexed.

Synonyms

confused, perplexed, puzzled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mystified

This word fits well in situations where someone is completely bewildered by something that seems mysterious or hard to understand.

  • She was mystified by the magician's trick
  • The detective was mystified by the strange clues left at the crime scene
puzzled

This word is best used when someone is somewhat confused but is actively trying to make sense of a situation or problem.

  • He looked puzzled when he saw the math problem
  • She was puzzled by the message she received
confused

This word is suitable for situations where there's a lack of understanding, clarity or where someone is unable to make sense of a situation.

  • He looked confused when the instructions were given
  • I was confused by the sudden change in plans
perplexed

Use this word in more formal or serious contexts where someone is not just confused but deeply puzzled, often about a complex issue.

  • The scientist was perplexed by the unexpected results of the experiment
  • She was perplexed by his strange behavior

Examples of usage

  • I was completely mystified by the strange occurrences in the house.
  • She was mystified by his sudden change in behavior.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To be bewildered or confused by something.

Synonyms

bewildered, confused, perplexed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
mystified

Use this word when someone is completely puzzled or cannot understand something at all.

  • She was mystified by the strange message left on her desk.
  • The magician's trick had everyone in the audience mystified.
bewildered

This word is suitable for situations where someone is very puzzled and unable to find their way or make sense of something.

  • He looked bewildered when he arrived in the new city without a map.
  • The instructions left her feeling completely bewildered.
confused

This word is more general and can be used in many situations where someone does not understand something or is unsure about what to do.

  • I'm confused about the new policy at work.
  • The complex math problem left the students confused.
perplexed

Use this word for situations where someone is very confused, especially when they are trying hard to understand something.

  • The scientist was perplexed by the unexpected experiment results.
  • She felt perplexed by his sudden change in behavior.

Examples of usage

  • She was mystified by the magic trick.
  • I am mystified by his refusal to answer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Being mystified can trigger curiosity, which is essential for learning and problem-solving.
  • It often results from cognitive dissonance, where new information conflicts with existing beliefs.
  • Children frequently feel mystified when encountering concepts that challenge their understanding of the world.

Art and Literature

  • Mystified characters are common in stories, often leading to suspense and engaging plots.
  • In literature, the feeling of being mystified can symbolize the search for truth or deeper meaning.
  • Surrealist artworks often mystify viewers by challenging perceptions of reality and provoking thought.

Pop Culture

  • Mystified themes are prevalent in mystery novels and films, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
  • Popular songs about feeling mystified express emotions of confusion and longing, resonating with listeners.
  • Television shows often use cliffhangers to mystify viewers, making them eager for the next episode.

Science

  • In scientific inquiry, being mystified can lead to groundbreaking discoveries as researchers explore the unknown.
  • Mystification in science can arise from complex theories that challenge our understanding of the universe.
  • The 'mystery of dark matter' in astrophysics continues to mystify scientists, as its true nature remains largely unknown.

Origin of 'mystified'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'mystes', meaning 'one who is initiated, involved in mystery'.
  • Originally used in English in the 18th century, 'mystify' was about creating confusion or awe.
  • Related forms include 'mystery', referring to something that is difficult to understand or explain.

The word 'mystified' originates from the late 18th century, derived from the noun 'mystify', which comes from the French word 'mystifier'. The prefix 'mis-' suggests an action that leads to confusion or bewilderment, reflecting the meaning of the word.

See also: mystification, mystifying, mystifyingly.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,590, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.