Perplexed: meaning and synonyms

George Alvarez 28-10-2023
George Alvarez

When we find ourselves in a situation that is different or that we don't fully understand, we may use a number of words. But which term do you use? You probably use perplexed But many people speak and write this word with the wrong meaning.

Therefore, in our post we will explain to you what means perplexed So, if you want to know more, keep reading our text, and at the end we have a special invitation for you.

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Definition of perplexed

The grammatical classification of this word is adjective, that is, it is a term used to qualify a situation or a person. The etymology of the word perplexed comes from Latin perplexus .

But what does perplexed mean? We use this word when we don't know how to behave when faced with something that seems to have no obvious explanation. We also use it when we are left without a reaction or full of doubt in some situation.

Finally, we can use the term when we are amazed or filled with wonder at some moments.

Synonyms

Synonyms are words that have the same meaning or the definitions of these terms are very similar. In the case of the word perplexed the synonyms are:

Astonished

The word is an adjective that can be used when we are frightened and confused in front of a reality Moreover, it is more used for situations in which we are left without a reaction.

Flabbergasted

It's an expression that is often used in everyday life to say that we are amazed by some situation For example, "The price of the food basket has left us dumbfounded!"

Doubtful

We use the term when something doesn't inspire confidence. Furthermore, we define as doubtful a situation that seems uncertain.

Stupefied

This term is rarely used in our daily life, but it can be used in a situation that left us surprised and amazed.

Hesitant

This word is more common! It is an adjective that indicates when something seems indecisive or doubtful.

Uncertain

The Last synonym for perplexed can mean something that is unpredictable or a job that doesn't seem right, for example: "You seemed uncertain when it came time to make your decision.

Antonyms

Unlike synonyms, antonyms are words that have opposite meanings.

Regarding the word perplexed Let's look at some antonyms:

  • right: means something without error, something exact about a fact;
  • determined: We use it when we want to mark, limit or fix something, and it can also be something secure, established and decided;
  • manifest: is a public statement of opinion, also power something evident and clear;
  • notorious: means something that is common knowledge, everybody knows;
  • patent: refers to what or who has or presents no uncertainties or doubts, that is something evident, clear and visible.

What is perplexity?

This is a word that is derived from the term perplexed Perplexity is a feminine noun and comes from the Latin perplexitas.atis .

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The meaning of this word is the state of one who shows hesitation in a complex or difficult to solve situation.

Some synonyms for the word perplexity are: perplexity, hesitation, and confusion.

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Examples of word usage

Now that we have a better understanding of meaning perplexed To fix this even more, let's look at some sentences with the term.

  1. Maria was perplexed when she saw her credit card bill.
  2. I returned home somewhat perplexed, because it was the third time I had gone to the health center and there was no doctor.
  3. He was stumped as he tried to calculate the years left until retirement.
  4. The two friends exchanged a perplexed look when John said that nonsense.
  5. Are you perplexed and afraid because of this situation?
  6. This shooting has me stumped until now.
  7. Joana heard that her payment would not be made on the due date, so she talked to the manager, as she was perplexed.
  8. "Russia [...] said on Tuesday that the EU's criticism caused perplexity and disappointment." (Headline belonging to the newspaper Folha de S.Paulo)
  9. "Before the perplexity of colleagues, the whistleblower of the "amendments scandal" in the São Paulo State Assembly concluded [...]" (Headline belonging to the newspaper Folha de S.Paulo)
  10. Perplexity gave way to shock when we understood that situation.
  11. We went from bewilderment to surprise at seeing that scene.
  12. Only one thing can perplex me: the increase in our salaries.
  13. Maria assumed an air of perplexity as she listened to the whole story.
  14. This whole situation can have several adjectives, but I believe perplexity is the best definition, because this is unacceptable.
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What situations can perplex us?

Many situations in our daily lives can leave us in doubt or perplexed; in fact, sometimes we don't even know how to react. Especially nowadays, we see news on the radio, TV, internet, or social networks, which seem surreal.

In addition, we have the context of the pandemic of the new coronavirus. The totally new virus that appeared at the end of 2019 and to this day is still the reason for several deaths and our social isolation.

So we cannot help but be perplexed by this situation that affects us all. In other words, we cannot help but find examples from day to day that leave us doubtful, uncertain and astonished. Finally, it seems that the word of the moment that can define the current situation is perplexity.

Messages about perplexity

To finish our post, we have selected some messages or some excerpts from poems that talk about perplexity.

  • " Perplexity is the beginning of knowledge ." (Author: Khalil Gibran)
  • "Your perplexity is my privacy telling your mistakes to demonstrate my reality" (Author:Julio Aukay)
  • " The new has always aroused perplexity and resistance ." (Author: Sigmund Fred)
  • "Perplexity is the most neglected gesture of this time [...]" (Author: Joel Neto)
  • " When we reach the apex of perplexity, we admit that silence has the gift of the word and pass the microphone. "(Author: Denise Ávila)

Final thoughts about being perplexed

We hope that our post has helped you understand more about what is perplexing For this reason, we invite you to get to know our complete Clinical Psychoanalysis Training Course. If you are not interested in clinical practice, with our online classes you will be able to develop your personal side.

In addition, you will better understand about human relations and behavioral phenomena. Our theoretical basis is grounded so that the student can understand about the psychoanalytic area. Our course is 18 months long and you will have access to theory, supervision, analysis, and monograph.

Finally, if you liked our post about the word perplexed Also, be sure to check out our online psychoanalysis course.

George Alvarez

George Alvarez is a renowned psychoanalyst who has been practicing for over 20 years and is highly regarded in the field. He is a sought-after speaker and has conducted numerous workshops and training programs on psychoanalysis for professionals in the mental health industry. George is also an accomplished writer and has authored several books on psychoanalysis that have received critical acclaim. George Alvarez is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with others and has created a popular blog on Online Training Course in Psychoanalysis that is widely followed by mental health professionals and students around the world. His blog provides a comprehensive training course that covers all aspects of psychoanalysis, from theory to practical applications. George is passionate about helping others and is committed to making a positive difference in the lives of his clients and students.