nonplus
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //nɒnˈplʌs//
KK: /nɑnˈplʌs/
noun
Definition
A situation where someone is confused or unsure about what to do next.
Example
When he heard the unexpected news, he was in a state of nonplus.
Conversation
I was trying to explain the project, but everyone looked so confused.
Yeah, I noticed that too; there was a real sense of nonplus in the room.
I didn't expect it to be that complicated.
Maybe we need to simplify our approach next time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
confusion
bewilderment
perplexity
Antonyms
clarity
certainty
understanding
transitive verb
Definition
To confuse someone so much that they do not know how to respond or what to do.
Example
The unexpected question nonplussed her, leaving her speechless for a moment.
Tense Forms
Past: nonplussed
Past Participle: nonplussed
Conversation
I was really nonplussed by her reaction to the surprise party.
Yeah, it was surprising how she just stood there.
I thought she would be happy, but instead she seemed lost.
Root Explanation
Nonplus → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "plus" (from Latin "plus", meaning more). The word describes a state of being so perplexed that one cannot respond or act, essentially meaning not more or unable to proceed due to confusion.
Memory Tip
Think of being in a situation where you are 'not' ('non-') able to do 'more' ('plus') because you are so confused. This helps you remember that 'nonplus' means to be perplexed or bewildered.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.