a situation in which people are uncertain about what to do or are unable to understand something clearly, a feeling of uncertainty or lack of understanding

Formal and Informal Expressions of confusion

In different contexts, you can replace 'confusion' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'uncertainty, bewilderment' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'mix-up, mess' is a commonplace synonym.

confusion: Explore its Definition & Usage

confusion Definition

1a situation in which people are uncertain about what to do or are unable to understand something clearly
2a feeling of uncertainty or lack of understanding

Using confusion: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "confusion" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The instructions were written with such confusion that nobody could understand them.
Example
There was a lot of confusion at the airport due to the canceled flights.
Example
The new policy caused a lot of confusion among the employees.

confusion Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for confusion

Antonyms for confusion

Phrases with confusion

mass confusion
a state of chaos and disorder affecting a large number of people
Example
The announcement of the new regulations caused mass confusion among the citizens.
confusion reigns
a situation where there is a lot of confusion and uncertainty
Example
After the sudden death of the CEO, confusion reigned in the company.
throw into confusion
to cause a situation to become chaotic and disordered
Example
The unexpected arrival of the guests threw the party into confusion.

Origins of confusion

from Latin 'confusio', meaning 'mingling, mixing, blending'

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Summary: confusion in Brief

Confusion [kənˈfjuːʒən] refers to a state of uncertainty or lack of understanding. It can be caused by unclear instructions or policies, as well as unexpected events. Examples include 'The instructions were written with such confusion that nobody could understand them.' and 'There was a lot of confusion at the airport due to the canceled flights.' Phrases like 'mass confusion' and 'throw into confusion' denote situations of chaos and disorder.