puzzling
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpʌz.lɪŋ/
KK: /ˈpʌz.lɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Something that is hard to understand or explain, often causing confusion or curiosity.
Example
The magician's trick was so puzzling that the audience couldn't figure out how it was done.
Conversation
Have you seen that new documentary?
Yeah, I found it really puzzling at times.
Right? Some parts just didn't make sense to me.
Same here! I had to rewatch a few sections to get it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
enigmatic
perplexing
confusing
Antonyms
clear
simple
obvious
noun
Definition
A situation or problem that is difficult to understand or solve.
Example
The puzzle was so puzzling that it took me hours to figure it out.
Conversation
I spent hours trying to solve that riddle, and it's so puzzling!
I know, right? Some of those clues make no sense at all.
Exactly! I love a good challenge, but this one is really puzzling.
verb
Definition
To confuse or make someone unable to understand something.
Example
The riddle was so puzzling that no one could solve it.
Tense Forms
Past: puzzled
Past Participle: puzzled
Conversation
I found this new game that is really puzzling.
Oh really? I love games that make you think!
Yeah, it has so many twists that it's hard to figure out.
Root Explanation
Puzzling → It is formed from "puzzle" (from Middle English *puzle*, meaning to confuse or perplex) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form present participles). The word "puzzling" describes something that causes confusion or is difficult to understand.
Memory Tip
Think of a situation that makes you feel confused or perplexed — that's what 'puzzling' means, as it comes from a word that means to confuse.
Visually Confused Words
puling
buzzing