we are baffled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are baffled" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing confusion or a lack of understanding about a situation or information. Example: "After reviewing the data, we are baffled by the unexpected results that contradict our initial hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

We are baffled by it all, all the time.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"We are baffled at where to begin," he said.

The New York Times

"We are baffled by the statement issued by the Russian Foreign Ministry," the newspaper said.

The New York Times

We are baffled that the court finds functionality or a technical solution implicit in the trademark".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We are baffled by this new accusation," his wife, Barbara Ibrahim, said in a telephone interview.

The New York Times

"At Hitachi, we are baffled over what kind of technology would allow everything to be finished in 10 years".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

We were baffled by his analysis.

The Guardian - Opinion

She's baffled by her life, and we're baffled for her.

The New Yorker

But most of all we're baffled by an act that scrambles our categories of justice.

The New Yorker

"We're baffled as to why nobody else saw it except us," she said.

The New York Times

"We're baffled that anyone would have a problem with endorsing Carl McCall," one of them said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are baffled" when you want to express genuine confusion or a lack of understanding in a situation that seems inexplicable or contradictory.

Common error

While appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing "we are baffled" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language that specifies the exact nature of the confusion or lack of understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are baffled" functions as a declarative statement expressing a state of confusion or lack of understanding. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in conveying perplexity regarding various situations, from political statements to scientific findings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are baffled" is a common and grammatically sound way to express confusion or a lack of understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various writing styles. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase effectively conveys perplexity and invites further explanation or investigation. While direct and easily understood, it's important to consider the context and audience when choosing between "we are baffled" and alternative expressions like "we are confused" or "we are perplexed". Ultimately, the phrase serves as a clear indicator that something is not easily understood and further clarification is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are perplexed

Uses "perplexed" to indicate a state of mental uncertainty, slightly more formal.

we are confused

Employs "confused", a more general term for lacking clarity or understanding.

we are puzzled

Replaces "baffled" with "puzzled", suggesting a state of mild bewilderment.

we are mystified

Uses "mystified" to imply a sense of being bewildered or inexplicable.

we are bewildered

Substitutes "baffled" with "bewildered", indicating a state of being deeply perplexed and confused.

we are stumped

Replaces with the colloquial "stumped", meaning unable to answer or solve a problem.

we cannot understand

States directly the lack of comprehension.

we fail to comprehend

Formally expresses the inability to grasp something.

we are at a loss to explain

Indicates an inability to provide a reason or justification.

we are uncertain

Expresses doubt or lack of sureness about something.

FAQs

What does "we are baffled" mean?

The phrase "we are baffled" means that a group of people are confused, perplexed, or unable to understand something. It expresses a state of bewilderment.

How can I use "we are baffled" in a sentence?

You can use "we are baffled" to express confusion about a situation. For example, "After reviewing the data, "we are baffled" by the unexpected results."

What can I say instead of "we are baffled"?

You can use alternatives like "we are confused", "we are perplexed", or "we are puzzled" depending on the context.

Is "we are baffled" formal or informal?

"We are baffled" is suitable for both neutral and slightly formal contexts. In very formal or academic writing, consider more precise synonyms.