a perplexing matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a perplexing matter" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation or issue that is confusing or difficult to understand. Example: "The recent changes in policy have created a perplexing matter for many employees, leaving them unsure of how to proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The oxidation of coal is a complex and multifaceted process representing a perplexing issue for both scientists and industrialist alike.

International Journal of Coal Science & Technology

The numbers being tossed around in the Blue Room were so enormous that a lazy brain's attention soon turned to the perplexing matter of Mr. Bloomberg's popularity, or lack of it.

The New York Times

He also sheds new light on the important part played by certain advisers within the Bush White House, while explicating several pivotal and perplexing matters concerning the administration's decision-making process.

The New York Times - Books

Now it could explain countless perplexing matters, such as how English "fish" was connected not only with Saxon "fisc" but with Latin "piscis". That made usable Sir William Jones's conception of an Indo-European language family, to which English belongs and to which Sanskrit is a main clue.

The New York Times - Books

Croesus is impressed with Walker's firsthand knowledge of these perplexing matters and the fire in his belly.

Forbes

He called the DOJ officials back to the White House the next day and asked them a perplexing question, Yates recounted to a Senate Judiciary subcommittee Monday afternoon: Why does it matter to DOJ if one White House official lies to another White House official?

The Washington Post

A perplexing court indeed.

The New York Times

BANKS are a perplexing mix.

The Economist

Suicide is a perplexing problem.

The Washington Post

This is a perplexing statement.

The New Yorker

It is a perplexing group.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "a perplexing matter" in academic or formal writing, be sure to provide sufficient context and supporting evidence to clarify the source and nature of the perplexity. This demonstrates thoroughness and allows readers to follow your line of reasoning.

Common error

Avoid using "a perplexing matter" when a simpler description like "a difficult issue" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose or dramatic. Reserve it for situations where genuine confusion and lack of understanding are central to the topic.

Linguistic Context

"A perplexing matter" functions as a noun phrase, where "perplexing" modifies "matter". It describes a specific issue or situation that is difficult to understand or resolve. Ludwig confirms its correct usage, reflecting its place within standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a perplexing matter" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something that is confusing or difficult to understand. While relatively infrequent, as indicated by Ludwig, it's most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. Alternatives such as ""a puzzling issue"" or ""a confusing situation"" may be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "a perplexing matter", ensure you provide enough context to clarify the nature of the confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a puzzling issue

Focuses on the problem aspect, implying something that needs solving but is confusing.

a confusing situation

Highlights the lack of clarity and potential for misunderstanding.

a baffling problem

Emphasizes the difficulty in comprehending or resolving the issue.

an enigmatic affair

Suggests a mystery or something difficult to interpret.

a thorny question

Implies a difficult and complex question with no easy answer.

a complex conundrum

Highlights the intricacy and difficulty of the problem.

a head-scratcher

An informal way of saying something is confusing and makes you think hard.

a tricky subject

Implies the matter is sensitive and requires careful handling.

a vexing question

Emphasizes the annoying and troublesome nature of the question.

an intricate puzzle

Highlights the complexity and the need for careful piecing together of information.

FAQs

How can I use "a perplexing matter" in a sentence?

You can use "a perplexing matter" to describe something that is confusing or difficult to understand. For example, "The recent changes in policy have created "a perplexing matter" for many employees, leaving them unsure of how to proceed."

What are some alternatives to "a perplexing matter"?

Alternatives include "a puzzling issue", "a confusing situation", or "a baffling problem", depending on the context.

Is "a perplexing matter" formal or informal?

"A perplexing matter" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It is suitable for both news reporting and academic writing, but can sound overdramatic in very casual conversations.

What makes something "a perplexing matter"?

A "perplexing matter" is characterized by its confusing nature and difficulty in understanding. It often involves contradictory information or lacks clear explanations, leaving individuals unsure and bewildered.