is totally perplexed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is totally perplexed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is completely confused or unable to understand a situation. Example: "After hearing the unexpected news, she is totally perplexed and doesn't know how to react."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

And now, it is apparently the close race that is totally perplexing the media for being so close.

Huffington Post

Returning to the subject of England and cricket, most people in the Muslim world are totally perplexed by Mr Blair's blind support for Bush.

The Guardian - Sport

Then FarmVille happened and everyone was totally perplexed – the most successful game in the world wasn't a big graphical extravaganza in space, but a game where you waited for crops to grow.

The Guardian - Tech

I'm totally perplexed by and sort of furious at Atticus when he has their aunt move in, who is just a heinous creature and is clearly there to get Scout to wear a skirt and wash her face, because I so don't want her to do anything like that.

Huffington Post

"When I dropped off Ryan's unanimously approved Eagle Board of Review application and report on December 31, Mr. Fenoglio looked me in the eyes, patted the stack of papers, and said, 'We'll sign it and send it on, but can't promise what will happen from there,'" Hazarabedian told CNN. "I'm totally perplexed by this statement from Scout Executive Fenoglio, a man I greatly respect and admire".

Huffington Post

The climate of the examination rooms in this country is so dramatically different that when I explain the Honor Code to these students they are totally amazed, if not perplexed.

Princeton University

"But that's what the women in my organization are demanding I do," he exclaimed, totally perplexed.

Harvard Business Review

"There's a split between the boys and girls who just love it, and those who seem totally perplexed".

The New York Times

OK, I can tell you my stance – totally perplexed.

The Guardian - Music

Am totally perplexed by this choice.

Los Angeles Times

Let me be frank about this: I find the success of these books totally perplexing.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is totally perplexed" when you want to emphasize a complete state of confusion or bewilderment. It's stronger than simply saying someone is "perplexed".

Common error

While "is totally perplexed" is acceptable, avoid overusing "totally" as an intensifier in your writing. It can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Vary your language with alternatives like "completely", "utterly", or "entirely".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is totally perplexed" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state of being of a subject. It indicates a state of complete bewilderment or confusion. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

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Wiki

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is totally perplexed" is a grammatically correct way to express a state of complete confusion or bewilderment. While Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable in written English, it is important to use it judiciously, avoiding overuse of the intensifier "totally". Alternative phrases such as "is completely baffled" or "is utterly confused" can provide variety and nuance to your writing. The phrase is neutral in register and, while not overly formal, is appropriate for a range of contexts. It is important to note the phrase has a "Missing" frequency which means it is rarely used in modern english.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is completely baffled

Emphasizes a state of utter confusion, suggesting a stronger sense of being stumped than the original phrase.

is utterly confused

Highlights the complete lack of understanding, focusing on the mental state of being disoriented.

is entirely bewildered

Suggests a state of being perplexed and disoriented, often by something complex or surprising.

is absolutely mystified

Implies a sense of intrigue and wonder, as if the cause of confusion is something of a mystery.

is at a loss to explain

Focuses on the inability to provide a rational explanation, rather than simply being confused.

is totally flummoxed

Conveys a more lighthearted and informal sense of being utterly confused and unable to proceed.

cannot make head nor tail of

An idiomatic expression emphasizing the complete inability to understand something.

is completely disoriented

Focuses on the feeling of being lost and confused, either mentally or physically.

is deeply puzzled

Highlights the intellectual engagement with the confusing situation, suggesting a strong desire to understand.

is in a quandary

Suggests a state of uncertainty or perplexity over what to do in a difficult situation.

FAQs

How can I use "is totally perplexed" in a sentence?

You can use "is totally perplexed" to describe someone's complete state of confusion, like: "After hearing the details of the project, she "is totally perplexed" and doesn't know how to proceed".

What are some alternatives to "is totally perplexed"?

Some alternatives include "is completely baffled", "is utterly confused", or "is entirely bewildered". Choose the one that best fits the context and desired tone.

Is it grammatically correct to say "is totally perplexed"?

Yes, "is totally perplexed" is grammatically correct. Ludwig AI also confirms its usability in written English.

What's the difference between "is perplexed" and "is totally perplexed"?

The phrase "is totally perplexed" emphasizes a greater degree of confusion or bewilderment than simply saying "is perplexed". The addition of "totally" intensifies the feeling.