mystifying
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɪstəˌfaɪɪŋ/
KK: /ˈmɪstəˌfaɪɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Causing confusion or puzzlement; difficult to understand or explain.
Example
The magician's tricks were mystifying to the audience.
Conversation
Did you see that magic show last night?
Yeah, it was so mystifying how he did those tricks!
I know, right? I couldn't figure out any of them.
Same here! It really kept me guessing the whole time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
puzzling
enigmatic
baffling
Antonyms
clear
obvious
simple
verb
Definition
To make something difficult to understand or explain, causing confusion or wonder.
Example
The magician's tricks were mystifying to the audience.
Tense Forms
Past: mystified
Past Participle: mystified
Conversation
Did you see that magic show last night?
Yeah, it was so mystifying how he made that elephant disappear!
I know, right? I'm still trying to figure out how he did it.
Root Explanation
Mystifying → It is formed from "mystify" (from Greek "mystikos", meaning secret or hidden) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form present participles). The word "mystifying" describes something that is causing confusion or is difficult to understand, often because it is secretive or hidden.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'secret' or 'hidden' ('mystikos') and how it can leave you feeling confused or puzzled.
Visually Confused Words
satisfying
mortifying
justifying