What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
baffled
Example
I was completely baffled by the math problem. [baffled: adjective]
Example
Her strange behavior left me feeling baffled. [baffled: past tense]
puzzled
Example
He looked puzzled by the riddle and couldn't come up with an answer. [puzzled: adjective]
Example
I was puzzled by her sudden change in behavior. [puzzled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Puzzled is more commonly used than baffled in everyday language. Puzzled is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while baffled is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between baffled and puzzled?
While baffled is typically associated with a more formal or serious tone, puzzled is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
