Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.
Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
baffled by
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "baffled by" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is unable to understand or comprehend something. For example: "The professor was baffled by the student's response to the challenging question."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
59 human-written examples
"I'm baffled by it".
News & Media
They're baffled by largo, andante,.
News & Media
Some are baffled by him.
News & Media
Kramer was baffled by this.
News & Media
"He's baffled by acting.
News & Media
Dungy was baffled by the move.
News & Media
They seemed equally baffled by Beckett.
News & Media
He was baffled by these words.
News & Media
The F.B.I. was baffled by Sartre.
News & Media
Trilling was baffled by the attention.
News & Media
She is baffled by the Kukkiwon policy.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "baffled by", ensure the subject experiencing the bewilderment is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid replacing the preposition "by" with other prepositions like "with" or "at". The correct form is always "baffled by".
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "baffled by" functions as an adjective phrase, describing a state of confusion or bewilderment. It modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject is experiencing difficulty in understanding something. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage.
Frequent in
News & Media
80%
Science
10%
Wiki
5%
Less common in
Formal & Business
2%
Encyclopedias
1%
Reference
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "baffled by" is a common and grammatically correct way to express confusion or a lack of understanding, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as an adjective phrase and is versatile enough for various contexts, though primarily found in news and media. While alternatives like "perplexed by" or "mystified by" exist, "baffled by" remains a clear and effective choice. Remember to use the correct preposition "by" to avoid grammatical errors. Ludwig’s examples highlight its prevalence in authoritative sources, ensuring its reliability in your writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
perplexed by
Replaces "baffled" with "perplexed", suggesting a state of mental uncertainty or confusion.
confounded by
Uses "confounded" instead of "baffled", implying being bewildered or confused, often to a frustrating degree.
mystified by
Substitutes "baffled" with "mystified", indicating a state of bewilderment as if confronted with a mystery.
bewildered by
Replaces "baffled" with "bewildered", suggesting a feeling of being perplexed and confused.
puzzled by
Uses "puzzled" instead of "baffled", suggesting a mild state of confusion or uncertainty.
at a loss to understand
Offers a more descriptive alternative, indicating an inability to comprehend something.
unable to comprehend
Focuses on the lack of understanding, providing a straightforward alternative.
unable to fathom
Emphasizes the inability to deeply understand or grasp something.
bemused by
Implies a state of mild confusion and amusement, a slightly lighter form of being "baffled".
at sea regarding
Uses an idiomatic expression to convey a feeling of being lost or confused about something.
FAQs
How can I use "baffled by" in a sentence?
Use "baffled by" to express confusion or lack of understanding about something. For example, "The detective was baffled by the lack of evidence at the crime scene."
What's the difference between "confused by" and "baffled by"?
While both convey a lack of understanding, "baffled by" suggests a greater degree of bewilderment or perplexity than "confused by".
What can I say instead of "baffled by"?
You can use alternatives like "perplexed by", "mystified by", or "bewildered by" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is it grammatically correct to say "baffled with" instead of "baffled by"?
No, "baffled by" is the correct and standard usage. "Baffled with" is grammatically incorrect.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested