What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
baffling
Example
The instructions for assembling the furniture were baffling. [baffling: adjective]
Example
The mystery surrounding the disappearance of the painting remains baffling. [baffling: gerund or present participle]
mystifying
Example
The magician's tricks were mystifying and left the audience in awe. [mystifying: adjective]
Example
The sudden change in her attitude towards me is mystifying. [mystifying: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Baffling is more commonly used than mystifying in everyday language. Baffling is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while mystifying is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations involving mysteries or enigmas.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between baffling and mystifying?
Both baffling and mystifying can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, mystifying may carry a slightly more formal tone due to its association with mystery and intrigue.
