What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nonplus
Example
The unexpected question nonplussed the speaker. [nonplus: verb]
Example
The news left her in a state of nonplus. [nonplus: noun]
perplex
Example
The complex instructions perplexed the students. [perplex: verb]
Example
The mystery left the detective perplexed. [perplexed: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perplex is more commonly used than nonplus in everyday language. Perplex is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while nonplus is less common and often used in more formal or literary settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between nonplus and perplex?
While nonplus is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, perplex is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
