Synonyms for

Confusion

Verb / kʌˈnfju:ʒʌn / Another word for confusion — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Confusion is a state of being bewildered or unclear about something.

Synonyms & similar words

discombobulation disarray muddiness mentalconfusion confusedness mixup bewilderment puzzlement perplexity muddle chaos disorder disorientation uncertainty ambiguity obfuscation tangle jumble maze mix-up mess complication difficulty complexity trouble travesty

Synonyms by register

Formal

perplexity bewilderment disorientation obfuscation

Informal

mess muddle haze jumble

Literary

enigma maze quandary

Antonyms

clarity understanding certainty order lucidity precision coherence

Common collocations

  • utter confusion
  • state of confusion
  • mental confusion
  • deep confusion
  • cause confusion
  • add to the confusion
  • clear up the confusion
  • in confusion

Word family

noun confusion
verb confuse
adjective confused
adverb confusedly

Usage note

Confusion refers to a state of being unclear or mixed up. It can range from mild uncertainty to complete disorientation. Avoid using 'confuse' transitively with 'with' when meaning 'to mistake one thing for another'; instead, use 'mistake X for Y'.

Example sentences

  1. She was in a state of confusion after seeing the identical twins.
  2. The directions were written in such a way that it caused confusion among the students.
  3. The sudden change in plans caused a lot of confusion.
  4. The new employee caused confusion by not following the proper procedures.
  5. The lack of communication caused confusion among the team members.

Quotes

  • Confusion is a word we have invented for an order which is not yet understood.
  • The greatest obstacle to discovery is not ignorance - it is the illusion of knowledge.
  • Confusion is a luxury which only the very, very young can afford and you are not that young anymore.

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