perplexing period

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perplexing period" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a time that is confusing or difficult to understand, often in a historical or personal context. Example: "The 1960s were a perplexing period marked by social upheaval and rapid change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

On their 1967 British debut album, First, they veer wildly from whimsical period psychedelia to string-laden balladry to perplexing dementia.

The Guardian - Music

Odd as it sounds, this would explain the perplexing finding that girls with older brothers get their first periods later than their peers.

Huffington Post

She clearly delighted in manufacturing these perplexing or gnomic shards of literature, running through various styles and periods, at once "discovering" wisdom and mocking sententiousness.

The Guardian - Books

Indeed, net capital spending by Whitehall departments where most of the planned increase is earmarked has fallen slightly compared with the same period in 1999-2000.The shortfall in capital spending compared with plan is as perplexing as it is worrying for ministers.

The Economist

Perhaps no shot was more perplexing than Patrice Bergeron's goal that tied the score at 4-4 early in the third period.

The New York Times - Sports

People who ask for a little introspection from the man whose name is a byword for that activity may find it perplexing that this Hamlet never seems to look inward, which means that he never grows up — or grows, period.

The New York Times

Mr. Yayla's argument — that the early years of the republic were less democratic than the period after Turkey became a multiparty system, and that Ataturk's monopoly on public images would be perplexing to Europeans — "had no basis in science," said Huseyin Durdu, a Turkish patriot lawyer and a complainant.

The New York Times

I find it perplexing".

Independent

"That was somewhat perplexing".

The New York Times

A perplexing court indeed.

The New York Times

"It's very perplexing".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "perplexing period", ensure the context provides enough information to understand what is causing the confusion or difficulty. Be specific in your description to enhance clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "perplexing period" without providing specific details about what makes the period perplexing. Without context, the phrase can feel vague and uninformative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perplexing period" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying the noun "period". It describes a specific time frame characterized by confusion, mystery, or difficulty in understanding. Although Ludwig has no exact examples, it's usability is confirmed and clear.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "perplexing period" describes a time that is confusing or difficult to understand. Ludwig indicates that while the phrase is grammatically correct, it is not frequently used. Alternatives include "confusing time" or "bewildering era". When using the phrase, it's important to provide enough context to clarify what makes the period perplexing. As the usage can be vague without enough context, this makes it's use less common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

confusing time

Replaces "perplexing" with a more common synonym, maintaining the focus on a confusing duration.

bewildering era

Substitutes both words with synonyms, emphasizing the sense of being lost or confused in a historical context.

puzzling phase

Offers a slightly less formal alternative, focusing on a specific stage or part of a larger process.

enigmatic stage

Uses more sophisticated vocabulary to convey a sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding a specific point in time.

mystifying time frame

Emphasizes the difficulty in understanding the reasons or causes behind the events of a certain duration.

incomprehensible duration

Highlights the lack of understanding or clarity regarding the length of a specific time.

obscure chapter

Replaces "period" with "chapter" to suggest a part of a larger narrative that is not well understood.

ambiguous spell

Uses more figurative language to describe a period characterized by uncertainty and multiple possible interpretations.

unfathomable epoch

Employs grander terms to convey a sense of being unable to fully grasp or comprehend the scope of a particular historical era.

difficult to understand time

Breaks the phrase down into a more explicit, descriptive form.

FAQs

How can I use "perplexing period" in a sentence?

You can use "perplexing period" to describe a time that is confusing or hard to understand. For instance, "The early 20th century was a "perplexing period" due to rapid technological advancements and social changes."

What are some alternatives to "perplexing period"?

Alternatives include "confusing time", "bewildering era", or "puzzling phase", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "perplexing period" or "confusing period"?

Both "perplexing period" and "confusing period" are grammatically correct, but "confusing period" is more common and easier to understand. "Perplexing" might be more appropriate when you want to emphasize a deeper level of mystery or difficulty in understanding.

Can "perplexing period" be used to describe personal experiences?

Yes, "perplexing period" can be used to describe personal experiences, like "My teenage years were a "perplexing period" of self-discovery and emotional turmoil."