What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
befuddle
Example
The complicated instructions on the manual befuddled me. [befuddled: past tense]
Example
The professor's lecture on quantum physics befuddled the students. [befuddled: verb]
perplex
Example
The riddle perplexed me for hours. [perplexed: past tense]
Example
The math problem perplexed the student, as they couldn't figure out the correct solution. [perplexed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perplex is more commonly used than befuddle in everyday language. Perplex is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while befuddle is less common and has a slightly informal connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between befuddle and perplex?
While befuddle is typically associated with a more informal tone, perplex is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
