still perplexed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "still perplexed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing ongoing confusion or uncertainty about a situation or topic. Example: "After reading the report multiple times, I am still perplexed by the conclusions drawn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"As I sit here, I'm still perplexed.

The New York Times

Four years after the Sichuan earthquake I am still perplexed.

The New York Times

After several tries I was still perplexed as to what I was doing wrong.

The New York Times

They lost an early goal and then laboured throughout, as if still perplexed by their circumstances.

Independent

Still perplexed, and now impatient, she tries one more time: "No.

The New York Times

But so far, most executives are still perplexed over how to make it easy enough.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It's an argument that still perplexes many.

Independent

This isn't the first poll to have that finding, but it's still perplexing.

The Economist

Jarvis's 2007 thesis is a bit more judicious, though still perplexing.

The New Yorker

But the mystery of the lost English umbrella still perplexes the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn.

The New York Times

Still perplexing to Miles is that Tenuta became involved, even though they have never spoken.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "still perplexed", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is causing the confusion. Providing context helps the reader understand the scope and nature of the perplexity.

Common error

Avoid using "still perplexed" when the confusion has been resolved. The "still" emphasizes that the perplexity is ongoing and unresolved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "still perplexed" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a subject to indicate an ongoing state of confusion or bewilderment. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in various contexts to express this state.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "still perplexed" is a common and grammatically correct way to express ongoing confusion or bewilderment. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is widely used in diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While the AI highlights its validity and frequency, remember that carefully selecting the right context enhances clarity. Alternatives like "still confused" or "still baffled" can provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

still puzzled

This alternative uses 'puzzled' instead of 'perplexed', indicating a similar state of confusion but perhaps a slightly milder degree of bewilderment.

still baffled

Replaces 'perplexed' with 'baffled', suggesting a sense of being confused and unable to understand something.

still mystified

This phrase uses 'mystified' to indicate a sense of bewilderment as if something is shrouded in mystery.

still bewildered

Substitutes 'perplexed' with 'bewildered', implying a state of confusion and disorientation.

still confused

A more general term, 'confused' replaces 'perplexed' to describe a lack of clear understanding.

remaining perplexed

Focuses on the continuation of perplexity, highlighting the ongoing state of confusion.

yet perplexed

Emphasizes that despite prior attempts to understand, confusion persists.

unresolved confusion

Shifts from describing the state of being to describing the state of the issue, indicating that the confusion hasn't been cleared up.

lingering bewilderment

Uses 'lingering' to highlight the prolonged duration of the bewilderment, replacing "still" with a more evocative adjective.

consistently puzzled

Highlights the recurring or continuous nature of the puzzlement, emphasizing consistency.

FAQs

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

You can use "still perplexed" to express ongoing confusion about something. For example, "After hours of studying, I am "still perplexed" by the theorem".

What are some alternatives to saying "still perplexed"?

Alternatives include "still confused", "still baffled", or "still mystified". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "still perplexed"?

No, it's not redundant. "Perplexed" indicates confusion, while "still" emphasizes that the confusion persists despite time or effort.

What's the difference between "still perplexed" and "always perplexed"?

"Still perplexed" implies that the confusion is ongoing from a specific point. "Always perplexed" suggests a more chronic or consistent state of confusion regardless of the situation or information provided. For example, it could be linked with a person's characteritics.