What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
stumped
Example
I was stumped by the final question on the exam. [stumped: past tense]
Example
The detective was stumped by the lack of evidence in the case. [stumped: past participle]
perplexed
Example
I was perplexed by the strange behavior of my cat. [perplexed: past tense]
Example
The scientist was perplexed by the unexpected results of the experiment. [perplexed: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perplexed is more commonly used than stumped in everyday language. Perplexed is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while stumped is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between stumped and perplexed?
Perplexed is more formal and academic than stumped, which is more informal and colloquial. Therefore, perplexed is more appropriate for formal writing or academic contexts, while stumped is more suitable for casual conversations or informal writing.
