PERPLEXITY Synonyms: 47 Similar and Opposite Words

perplexity

noun

pər-ˈplek-sə-tē

Definition of perplexity

as in confusion

a state of mental uncertainty seeing her perplexity, the teacher stepped in with a helpful hint

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of perplexity The Eagles’ 21-17 Sunday loss to the Denver Broncos contained the perplexity that has in the past provoked fans to picket outside the NovaCare Complex’s gates. — Brooks Kubena, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025 The thought appears to cross his mind that the condition might account for his own social perplexity. — Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 25 May 2025 This story is one of many that showcase the perplexities that encompass being a mother and a human raising other humans, which is not a small task. — Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 10 Apr. 2025 Doing so nine days since the transfer portal opened on March 24 only adds to the perplexity. — Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perplexity

Recent Examples of Synonyms for perplexity

Noun

The company, which offers credit cards used to make rent and mortgage payments, had fumbled a critical transition, leading to confusion and financial stress for its customers.

— Andy Kroll, ProPublica, 31 Aug. 2026
Aggregators typically disclose this information in their search filters, and knowing it in advance avoids confusion on arrival.

— Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of confusion

Noun

This horror movie mostly just smelled of fake fog from a community theater production and occasionally you were startled by random bursts of air, once again pulling you from the events on screen.

— Meredith G. White, AZCentral.com, 28 Aug. 2026
Tech has crept into every facet of everyday life, like an invisible fog of ones and zeros.

— Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of fog

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perplexities

perplexity

perps

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“Perplexity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perplexity. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of perplexity

noun

Example Sentences

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