perplexing

[per-plek-sing] / pərˈplɛk sɪŋ /

ADJECTIVE

difficult to understand

Synonyms

STRONGEST

baffling complicated confusing convoluted disconcerting knotty mysterious mystifying puzzling thorny worrying

STRONG

involved taxing

WEAK

beyond one impenetrable intricate mind-bending paradoxical

Antonyms

STRONGEST

clear easy simple straightforward untroublesome

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The mismatch between theory and observation remains one of the most perplexing problems in modern physics.

From Science Daily • Jun. 19, 2026

What might motivate Rozier to take part in such as scheme is perplexing.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

The Supreme Court handed down a perplexing 5–4 decision on Thursday in Hamm v.

From Slate • May 23, 2026

Paul Donovan, UBS chief economist, suggested that while the April inflation data might be perplexing, the president’s reaction was notable.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

The timing of all these hotel stays was perplexing.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson

Vocabulary lists containing perplexing

"Shooting an Elephant"

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Sam Shepard (1943-2017) Tribute List

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Robert Loggia (1930-2015) Tribute List

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