perplexity about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perplexity about" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing confusion or uncertainty regarding a specific topic or issue. Example: "There was a sense of perplexity about the new policy changes and how they would affect employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

There is fascination, respect and envy, but also perplexity about and resentment of those high-handed and inscrutable Americans.

The New York Times

But do we even experience any perplexity about this question?

The Guardian - Opinion

But some church experts have expressed perplexity about the continued use of the word pope.

The New York Times

Mr. Boies, I have one other perplexity about the scheme that's been set up here.

The New York Times

There was perplexity about the purchase and outside experts were consulted.

The Guardian - Books

He then had his friend phone Tammaro, feign perplexity about the address, and ask him to meet her on the street.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Moreover, even if this underlying worry is shelved, there are further perplexities about testing scientific theories of consciousness.

The Economist

But one of the many perplexities about this ideal is that about 20% of the population of the Jewish state would be Palestinian.

The Economist

But they could also be saying something about the perplexity designers feel about what it means to be womanly, sexual and a breadwinner besides.

The New York Times

As McComas points out in a review of the US school system, some rigid, dogmatic, authoritarian positions taken by teachers in the face of evolution may come from perplexities not about content but about the nature of science.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Her perplexity and frustration about the choices she has made in her life — she divorced her philandering husband only after their children were grown — overtake her as unpredictably as her back pain.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "perplexity about", ensure the subject of your perplexity is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "perplexity about the new policy" rather than just "perplexity."

Common error

Avoid using "perplexity about" when a simpler term like "confusion" or "uncertainty" suffices. Overusing "perplexity" can make your writing sound overly formal or pretentious. Stick to clearer and more direct language when possible.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perplexity about" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to express a state of confusion or uncertainty concerning a particular subject. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "perplexity about" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to express confusion or uncertainty concerning a specific topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and appropriate, although slightly more formal than alternatives like "confusion regarding". It appears most frequently in News & Media, Science and Academic contexts. To maintain clarity, define the subject of your "perplexity" and avoid overuse in informal settings. Semantically similar phrases include "confusion regarding", "uncertainty concerning", and "bewilderment regarding". Remember to consider the subtle differences in meaning and tone when selecting the most suitable alternative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

confusion regarding

Focuses specifically on the lack of clarity or understanding about something.

uncertainty concerning

Emphasizes the lack of sureness or definiteness about a topic.

bewilderment regarding

Highlights the feeling of being perplexed or confused.

puzzlement over

Indicates a state of being puzzled or perplexed about something.

apprehension about

Highlights anxiety or fear related to a particular issue.

anxiety concerning

Emphasizes worry and unease related to something.

unease regarding

Suggests a feeling of discomfort or anxiety about a subject.

doubt about

Focuses on the lack of certainty or trust in something.

skepticism concerning

Emphasizes a questioning attitude or doubt about something.

reservation about

Indicates a feeling of hesitation or doubt about something.

FAQs

How can I use "perplexity about" in a sentence?

You can use "perplexity about" to express confusion or uncertainty regarding a specific topic. For example, "There was a sense of perplexity about the new policy changes."

What are some alternatives to "perplexity about"?

You can use alternatives like "confusion regarding", "uncertainty concerning", or "bewilderment regarding depending on the context.

Is "perplexity about" formal or informal?

"Perplexity about" leans towards a more formal register. In informal contexts, consider using simpler terms like "confusion" or "uncertainty".

What's the difference between "perplexity about" and "concern about"?

"Perplexity about" implies confusion or a lack of understanding, while "concern about" suggests worry or anxiety. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize confusion or worry.