What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vexed
Example
I was vexed by the constant noise from my neighbor's party. [vexed: adjective]
Example
The technical issue has been vexing me for hours. [vexing: present participle]
perplexed
Example
I am perplexed by the instructions for this game. [perplexed: adjective]
Example
The detective was perplexed by the lack of evidence at the crime scene. [perplexed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vexed is more commonly used in everyday language than perplexed. Vexed is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while perplexed is less common and tends to be used in more formal or academic settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between vexed and perplexed?
Perplexed is generally considered more formal than vexed. It is often used in academic or professional contexts where precision of language is important. Vexed, on the other hand, is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
