completely stumped

USAGE SUMMARY

"completely stumped" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when expressing that someone is utterly confused or unable to solve a problem. Example: After hours of trying to solve the puzzle, I was completely stumped. Alternative expressions include "totally baffled" and "entirely perplexed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

We're completely stumped.

Independent

"It's completely stumped me," she said.

The New York Times

What about those times when you are completely stumped?

Cornell University

Confronted with dollar signs, fractions and decimal points, Shukria was completely stumped.

The New York Times

This one has me completely stumped, so I would be mailing friends who might know something about Canadian law.

Cornell University

If you're completely stumped or not having fun, please call us, and we'll do what we can to help.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

So when my youngest [and only] daughter, at the age of nine, began to have some pretty serious anxiety issues (completely stumping her dad and myself), I was all over trying to find an answer.

Huffington Post

"They were totally stumped.

Independent

None seems quite on the mark (and Angela Merkel stumped us completely), so we're appealing to you, loyal readers.

The New Yorker

Eventually, I said my prayers, opened up the large hive, and was completely, utterly, and hopelessly stumped in my ability to find the queen.

The New York Times

If you're stumped about what will make any certified science geek completely nerd out, just check out our go-to gift guide below.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "completely stumped" to clearly and emphatically express a state of utter confusion or inability to understand something. It adds a relatable and slightly informal tone to your writing.

Common error

While "completely stumped" is widely understood, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more formal alternatives like "utterly perplexed" or "entirely baffled" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "completely stumped" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject to describe their state of being utterly confused or unable to proceed due to a lack of understanding. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "completely stumped" is a commonly used adjectival phrase that effectively conveys a state of utter confusion or being baffled. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, academia, and general conversation. While versatile, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in highly professional settings. Ludwig also provides numerous examples demonstrating its application and suggesting related phrases for nuanced expression. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utterly baffled

Emphasizes the level of confusion and inability to comprehend.

totally perplexed

Highlights a state of bewilderment and uncertainty.

totally bewildered

Indicates a state of extreme confusion and disorientation.

completely mystified

Emphasizes the mysterious and incomprehensible nature of something.

absolutely clueless

Suggests a complete lack of understanding or knowledge.

unable to fathom

Stresses the impossibility of understanding or grasping something.

couldn't make head or tail of it

Expresses the inability to understand something, despite effort.

at a loss for words

Indicates an inability to respond or explain due to surprise or confusion.

entirely disoriented

Highlights the loss of direction or understanding.

blanked out

Indicates a temporary loss of memory or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "completely stumped" in a sentence?

"Completely stumped" is typically used to describe a state of confusion or inability to understand something. For example, "I was "completely stumped" by the final question on the exam."

What does "completely stumped" mean?

It means being utterly confused or unable to find an answer or solution to a problem. It suggests a total lack of understanding.

Which is correct, "completely stumped" or "totally stumped"?

Both "completely stumped" and "totally stumped" are correct and commonly used, although "completely stumped" may be perceived as slightly more formal.

What can I say instead of "completely stumped"?

You can use alternatives like "utterly baffled", "totally perplexed", or "absolutely clueless" depending on the context.