causing confusion

USAGE SUMMARY

'causing confusion' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to describe something that is provoking uncertainty, bewilderment, or perplexity. For example: "The government's lack of communication was causing confusion amongst the people."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The shifting rules are causing confusion.

The Guardian

But the article risks causing confusion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Modest they may be, but they are causing confusion.

The Guardian - Business

It is already causing confusion with early voters.

The New York Times

It would seem that the term "middle income" is causing confusion.

The Guardian

Jim Murphy, the shadow defence secretary, accused Fox of causing confusion and concern.

The Guardian

Many drugs have names that sound alike, causing confusion for doctors and nurses.

The New York Times

Indeed, the guinea pig is still causing confusion among some players.

The New York Times - Tech

Asked why the signs would not be taken down, he said, "They're not really causing confusion".

The New York Times

It is not only the misleading newspaper headlines about this U-turn which are causing confusion.

The Guardian

But the agency recently pulled the definition, apologizing for causing confusion and anxiety.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "causing confusion", ensure the subject and object of the confusion are clear to avoid further ambiguity. For example, specify who is confused and what is causing the confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "causing confusion" without specifying what exactly is causing the confusion. Vague statements can leave the reader unsure of the source of the problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "causing confusion" typically functions as a verb phrase, often part of a continuous verb tense (e.g., "is causing confusion"). According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "causing confusion" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively describes situations that lead to uncertainty or misunderstanding. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. When using this phrase, clarity regarding the source and subject of confusion is crucial for effective communication. Alternatives such as "generating bewilderment" or "inducing uncertainty" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

generating bewilderment

Focuses on the act of creating a state of being perplexed.

creating ambiguity

Focuses on the act of making something unclear or open to multiple interpretations.

inducing uncertainty

Highlights the action of leading to a state of doubt or insecurity.

breeding misunderstanding

Highlights the development of incorrect interpretations.

sparking disarray

Emphasizes the sudden and disruptive nature of the confusion.

stirring up doubt

Emphasizes the act of arousing suspicion or uncertainty.

fostering ambiguity

Stresses the creation of a lack of clarity.

prompting disorientation

Focuses on the feeling of being lost or disoriented as a result.

leading to mix-ups

Emphasizes the result of the confusion, which is mistakes.

sowing perplexity

Highlights the act of planting seeds of confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "causing confusion" in a sentence?

You can use "causing confusion" to describe something that leads to uncertainty or misunderstanding. For example, "The new policy is "causing confusion" among employees".

What are some alternatives to "causing confusion"?

Some alternatives include "generating bewilderment", "inducing uncertainty", or "creating ambiguity". Choose the alternative that best fits the specific context.

Is it better to say "causing confusion" or "creating confusion"?

Both "causing confusion" and "creating confusion" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between them often depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. "Causing" suggests a more indirect effect, while "creating" implies a more direct action.

What's the difference between "causing confusion" and "resulted in confusion"?

"Causing confusion" describes the act of something leading to a state of confusion, whereas "resulted in confusion" describes the outcome or consequence of something. For example, "The complex instructions were "causing confusion"," versus "The complex instructions "resulted in confusion"".