What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disarray
Example
The office was in complete disarray after the party. [disarray: noun]
Example
She disarrayed the papers on her desk while searching for the file. [disarray: verb]
confusion
Example
I'm in confusion about what to do next. [confusion: noun]
Example
The instructions were so confusing that I couldn't follow them. [confusing: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Confusion is more commonly used than disarray in everyday language. Confusion is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while disarray is less common and refers to a more severe level of disorder or chaos.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disarray and confusion?
Both disarray and confusion are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
