What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bewildering
Example
The maze was bewildering, with its countless twists and turns. [bewildering: adjective]
Example
Her explanation of the math problem was bewildering, leaving the students confused. [bewildering: present participle]
puzzling
Example
The riddle was so puzzling that nobody could solve it. [puzzling: adjective]
Example
His behavior is quite puzzling; I can't figure out why he's acting that way. [puzzling: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Puzzling is more commonly used than bewildering in everyday language. Puzzling is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while bewildering is less common and often used in specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bewildering and puzzling?
Both bewildering and puzzling can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Neither word is particularly more formal than the other.
