we are perplexed

USAGE SUMMARY

'we are perplexed' is a perfectly correct and usable sentence in written English.
You can use it to express confusion, bewilderment, or uncertainty about something. For example, "We are perplexed as to why the documents have not arrived yet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

We are perplexed, which is the human condition.

The New York Times

"Beyond the aggressive nature of this break-in, we are perplexed why anyone would take these trophies," said Horner.

The Guardian - Sport

But as Paul said, in the book of 2 Corinthians 4 8: "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair".

The Guardian - Opinion

As native Philadelphians, former employees and admiring friends of the University of Pennsylvania, we are perplexed by Penn's decision to rename one of the oldest buildings on campus, beautiful Logan Hall, for the late Claudia Cohen, an alumna.

The New York Times

"We are perplexed as to why he has turned down our offers of mediation, given that he has failed to produce any industry standard documentation of his work," Mr. Rubenstein said.

The New York Times - Arts

It is too much to ask that we embrace our changing faces — that we celebrate our mother's beauty in our own graying hair, that we remember the joy that created those laugh lines, that we recognize our father's forehead in the way ours wrinkles when we are perplexed, or we catch a glimpse of our aunt's eyes when our own crinkle with delight.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Cronin's title, "A Guide for the Perplexed," is ironic: "Why should we be perplexed?" Iain Sinclair asked earlier this month, in the Times Literary Supplement.

The New Yorker

We're perplexed.

The New York Times - Sports

I have to say we were perplexed over the past year.

The New York Times

"We're perplexed by the hire," said Rob Williamson, 36, who is in the medical device business.

The New York Times - Sports

Thanks be, Alain de Botton has come among us again, as he does so often when we're perplexed.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are perplexed", ensure the context clearly indicates what is causing the confusion. Providing specific details enhances clarity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "we are perplexed" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we're confused" or "we don't understand" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are perplexed" functions as a statement expressing a state of confusion or bewilderment experienced by a group. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It typically describes a reaction to something unexpected or difficult to understand.

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, "we are perplexed" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express confusion or bewilderment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for use in written English and typically employed in news, scientific, and professional contexts. While it can sound overly formal in casual conversation, it is a clear and effective way to communicate a lack of understanding. Alternatives such as "we are puzzled" or "we are confused" may be more appropriate in informal settings. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Science sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are puzzled

Replaces "perplexed" with "puzzled", maintaining a direct synonym for mild confusion.

we are confused

Uses "confused" instead of "perplexed", indicating a lack of clear understanding.

we are baffled

Substitutes "perplexed" with "baffled", suggesting bewilderment.

we are bewildered

Replaces "perplexed" with "bewildered", emphasizing a state of being deeply puzzled.

we are mystified

Employs "mystified" in place of "perplexed", highlighting a sense of mystery and incomprehension.

we are stumped

Uses "stumped" indicating a problem that cannot be solved or understood.

we find it puzzling

Shifts the structure to "find it puzzling", focusing on the characteristic of the situation.

we are at a loss to explain

Expresses an inability to provide an explanation.

we cannot understand

A more direct expression of not understanding.

we are uncertain

Indicates a lack of certainty or clarity.

FAQs

What does "we are perplexed" mean?

The phrase "we are perplexed" means that a group of people are confused, puzzled, or uncertain about something. It suggests a state of bewilderment or lack of understanding.

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

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

Is "we are perplexed" formal or informal?

"We are perplexed" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "we're confused" may be more appropriate.

How to use "we are perplexed" in a sentence?

You can use "we are perplexed" to express confusion or uncertainty about a situation. For example, "We are perplexed by the sudden change in policy" or "We are perplexed as to why the documents have not arrived yet."