What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disorienting
Example
The maze was disorienting and I couldn't find my way out. [disorienting: adjective]
Example
The sudden change in altitude left me feeling disoriented. [disoriented: verb]
confusing
Example
The instructions were confusing and I didn't know what to do. [confusing: adjective]
Example
The teacher's explanation only served to confuse me further. [confuse: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Confusing is more commonly used than disorienting in everyday language. Confusing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while disorienting is less common and refers to a more intense feeling of disorientation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disorienting and confusing?
Both disorienting and confusing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but disorienting may be considered more formal due to its less common usage.
