entirely perplexed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "entirely perplexed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a state of complete confusion or bewilderment regarding a situation or information. Example: "After hearing the complicated explanation, I was entirely perplexed about what to do next."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

While some might have been shocked this week by the multi-billion dollar offers the start-up Snapchat turned down, I found something else entirely perplexing about the valuation of this little company: just how quickly it grew.

The New York Times

I have only one substantive concern: The correlation between deactivation of the HC and both fornix FA and accuracy on the scene-oddity task being interpreted as evidence of HC involvement in complex scene perception is counterintuitive and entirely perplexing.

eLife

Last year, Chevrolet sent out a news release written entirely in emojis, perplexing many people.

The New York Times

The problem is, creating something entirely new requires imagination and until now that has perplexed AIs.

MIT Technology Review

Biden looked up, pleased but perplexed by an image he doesn't control or entirely recognize.

The New Yorker

The CEO was perplexed.

Harvard University

Certainly, viewers seem perplexed.

The New York Times

AMERICANS are perplexed.

The Economist

"I'm perplexed".

The New Yorker

I was perplexed.

The New York Times

Are you perplexed?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "entirely perplexed" to express a strong sense of confusion or bewilderment, particularly when you want to emphasize the completeness of your perplexity. For instance, "After reading the instructions, I was "entirely perplexed" by the assembly process."

Common error

Avoid using "entirely perplexed" when a milder sense of confusion is intended. It is a strong expression, so ensure it accurately reflects the depth of your perplexity. Using a word like "slightly" before it can create confusion, because "entirely" already means "completely".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entirely perplexed" functions as an intensifier (entirely) modifying an adjective (perplexed). This combination describes the extent of someone's confusion, emphasizing a complete state of bewilderment. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "entirely perplexed" is a grammatically correct phrase used to convey a strong sense of confusion or bewilderment. While relatively rare in usage, as indicated by Ludwig AI, it appears in authoritative sources like The New York Times and scientific publications. The phrase is best used when accurately reflecting a deep state of perplexity and should be avoided if a milder sense of confusion is intended. Alternatives such as "completely baffled" or "utterly confused" can be considered for similar meanings. When employing this phrase, be mindful of its intensity and ensure it aligns with the context and intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely baffled

Indicates a total lack of understanding, emphasizing the inability to comprehend something.

utterly confused

Highlights the depth and extent of the confusion, suggesting a complete loss of clarity.

totally bewildered

Emphasizes the state of being disoriented and puzzled, often by something unexpected or complex.

absolutely mystified

Suggests a sense of wonder and intrigue mixed with confusion, as if facing a mystery.

thoroughly puzzled

Indicates a deep state of perplexity, where someone has spent considerable time trying to understand something without success.

completely lost

Simple and direct way to describe the inability to understand a situation.

at a complete loss

Similar to being lost, but implies a feeling of helplessness in the face of confusion.

in total bewilderment

Nominalized form that emphasizes the state of confusion as a condition.

deeply disoriented

Focuses on the mental state of losing bearings and understanding.

genuinely perplexed

Highlights the sincerity and authenticity of the confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "entirely perplexed" in a sentence?

You can use "entirely perplexed" to describe a state of complete confusion or bewilderment. For example: "After hearing the complicated explanation, I was "entirely perplexed" about what to do next."

What are some alternatives to saying "entirely perplexed"?

You can use alternatives like "completely baffled", "utterly confused", or "totally bewildered" depending on the context.

What does "entirely" emphasize in the phrase "entirely perplexed"?

The word "entirely" emphasizes the completeness and totality of the perplexity, indicating that the person is completely and utterly confused.

Is it redundant to use modifiers like "very" or "slightly" before "entirely perplexed"?

Using modifiers like "very" or "slightly" before "entirely perplexed" could be considered redundant because "entirely" already implies a complete or total state. Consider using a different phrase if you want to convey a lesser degree of confusion.