puzzling
word · lemma: puzzle
Definition
Something that is puzzling is difficult to understand or explain because it is mysterious or unclear.
Usage & Nuances
'Puzzling' is usually used for situations, problems, or behavior that are hard to explain. It is more formal than 'confusing'. Common in written and spoken English. Often used with words like 'question', 'mystery', 'behavior'.
Spanish: desconcertante - desconcertado (por algo)Portuguese (BR): intrigante - confusoPortuguese (PT): intrigante - confusoChinese (Simplified): 令人困惑的 - 令人费解的Chinese (Traditional): 令人困惑的 - 令人費解的Hindi: अनसुलझा - उलझन भराArabic: مُحَيِّر - غامض
Example Sentences
The movie's ending was very puzzling.
basic
I find these instructions puzzling.
basic
The teacher gave us a puzzling question.
basic
His puzzling reaction left everyone speechless.
natural
It's puzzling how he managed to solve the riddle so quickly.
natural
Her story was so puzzling that no one knew what to believe.
natural