bewildering
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /bɪˈwɪldərɪŋ/
KK: /bɪˈwɪldərɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing confusion or difficulty in understanding, often because there are too many options or complexities.
Example
The instructions for assembling the furniture were bewildering, leaving me unsure of what to do next.
Conversation
I went to that new bookstore yesterday, and it was so bewildering to see all the options.
I can imagine! Sometimes too many choices can be overwhelming.
Exactly! I didn't know where to start looking.
Maybe you should ask a staff member for recommendations next time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
confusing
perplexing
baffling
Antonyms
clear
simple
obvious
verb
Definition
To confuse someone very much, making it hard for them to understand something.
Example
The complex instructions were bewildering to the new employees.
Tense Forms
Past: bewildered
Past Participle: bewildered
Conversation
Did you read that article about the new technology?
Yes, it was quite bewildering at times.
I know, right? I wasn't sure if I understood everything.
Root Explanation
Bewildering → It is formed from the prefix "be-" (meaning to cause to be) and the root "wilder" (from Old English *wildor*, meaning wild or untamed) combined with the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "bewildering" means causing someone to be in a state of confusion or to feel lost, as if in a wild or untamed situation.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'caused to be' ('be-') in a 'wild' ('wilder') state — that's why bewildering means causing confusion.
Visually Confused Words
wildering
bewailing