Synonyms of perplexity

perplexity

noun

pər-ˈplek-sə-tē 

as in confusion

a state of mental uncertainty

seeing her perplexity, the teacher stepped in with a helpful hint

Synonyms & Similar Words

• confusion
• fog
• bewilderment
• tangle
• bafflement
• puzzlement
• bemusement
• befuddlement
• mystification
• discomfort
• distress
• discombobulation
• confusedness
• embarrassment
• maze
• dismay
• head-scratching
• bamboozlement
• mortification
• distraction
• muddle
• discomfiture
• bewilderedness
• agitation
• commotion
• whirl
• chagrin
• perturbation
• turmoil
• disquiet
• upset
• disturbance
• abashment
• flurry
• fuss
• dither
• disconcertment
• fluster
• bother
• stew

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• certainty
• confidence
• conviction
• assurance
• certitude
• sureness
• positiveness

Example Sentences

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