What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
baff
Example
The complex math problem completely baffled me. [baffled: past tense verb]
Example
I'm still baffled by his strange behavior. [baffled: adjective]
confound
Example
The magician's tricks confounded the audience. [confounded: past tense verb]
Example
Her sudden change in attitude confounded her friends. [confounded: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Baff is more commonly used than confound in everyday language. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to express confusion or puzzlement. On the other hand, confound is less common in everyday speech but is more frequently encountered in formal or written contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between baff and confound?
While baff is associated with a casual and informal tone, confound is slightly more formal. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more commonly found in writing or situations that require a more elevated style of language.
