puzzled

word · lemma: puzzle

Definition

Feeling confused because you do not understand something, or something doesn’t make sense.

Usage & Nuances

'Puzzled' is informal to neutral and often describes a mild or brief confusion. Common collocations: 'look puzzled', 'seem puzzled', 'puzzled expression'. 'Puzzled' is less intense than 'bewildered' or 'perplexed'.

Example Sentences

She looked puzzled when I asked her the question.

basic

I was puzzled by the strange noise.

basic

The children were puzzled by the difficult math problem.

basic

He gave me a puzzled look when I mentioned her name.

natural

After reading the instructions, I was still puzzled about what to do next.

natural

Everyone looked puzzled when the lights suddenly went out.

natural