it can be puzzling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can be puzzling" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation, concept, or problem that may be confusing or difficult to understand. Example: "The instructions for assembling the furniture are quite complex, and it can be puzzling for first-time users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

It can be puzzling.

The New York Times

It can be puzzling, though, to set the brightness in one place and then find the browser much dimmer (its default).

The Guardian - Tech

His name stands out on a roster, and if you've heard him as a violinist, guitarist, bassist or mandolinist in a new-music group, it can be puzzling to find him listed among the choristers at Trinity Church or as a member of the disco band Escort or the techno ensemble Bleknlok.

The New York Times - Arts

In a world where feminism is as avowed by popstars and models as it is by your favourite lesbian college professor, it can be puzzling to meet everyday women who don't back the gender equality movement.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But deciphering what their plan is, what they are actually up to, even what the actual end game that makes it really an innovation, can be puzzling.

Huffington Post

I wonder how it is that that anyone can be puzzling over whether a child swallowing toxic fluids is anything other than an emergency – but this is the way we live now, and an effect of the crisis.

The Guardian

Indeed, the global picture that we obtain with our method can be puzzling at first glance, and it is only when navigating in the drawing that the user will find more familiar patterns.

BMC Systems Biology

And chats can be puzzling.

The New York Times

Even all-American lists can be puzzling.

The New York Times - Food

Otherwise, his work can be puzzling.

The New Yorker

Cities can be puzzling or even dangerous.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "puzzling" with a synonym like "confusing", "baffling", or "perplexing" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it can be puzzling" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language to maintain reader engagement and clarity. For example, alternate with phrases like "it raises questions" or "it is open to interpretation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can be puzzling" functions as a descriptive statement, attributing a quality of causing confusion or difficulty in understanding to a specific subject. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show its application across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it can be puzzling" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something that is confusing or difficult to understand. As Ludwig AI indicates, its neutral tone makes it appropriate for a variety of contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. To enhance clarity and avoid overuse, consider using synonyms like ""it may be perplexing"" or ""it could be confusing"". When employing this phrase, ensure that the subject of confusion is clearly defined to prevent ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it may be perplexing

Replaces "can be" with "may be" and "puzzling" with "perplexing" offering a slightly more formal tone.

it could be confusing

Substitutes "can be" with "could be" and "puzzling" with "confusing" suggesting a possibility of confusion.

it might be baffling

Replaces "can be" with "might be" and "puzzling" with "baffling" indicating a sense of bewilderment.

it can be bewildering

Substitutes "puzzling" with "bewildering" emphasizing the state of being confused and disoriented.

it can be difficult to understand

Expands on the original phrase, specifying that the difficulty lies in understanding.

it is sometimes unclear

Replaces the entire phrase with a more direct statement about a lack of clarity.

it is not always straightforward

Indicates that something lacks directness or simplicity.

it presents a challenge

Changes the focus from confusion to the presence of a challenge in comprehension.

it raises questions

Shifts the emphasis to the act of questioning that results from the puzzling nature of something.

it is open to interpretation

Suggests that the subject is ambiguous and can be understood in multiple ways.

FAQs

What does "it can be puzzling" mean?

The phrase "it can be puzzling" means that something is capable of causing confusion or difficulty in understanding.

What can I say instead of "it can be puzzling"?

You can use alternatives like "it may be perplexing", "it could be confusing", or "it might be baffling" depending on the context.

How do I use "it can be puzzling" in a sentence?

Use "it can be puzzling" to describe something that is not easily understood. For example: "The instructions were poorly written, so it can be puzzling to assemble the furniture."

Is "it can be puzzling" formal or informal?

The phrase "it can be puzzling" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.