with bewilderment

USAGE SUMMARY

"with bewilderment" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a state of confusion or astonishment. For example: Jane looked up at me with bewilderment, obviously not understanding what I had said.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

HISTORIANS may record the fact with bewilderment.

The Economist

I looked at him with bewilderment.

The New Yorker

The Beatles?" — only to be met with bewilderment.

The New York Times - Magazine

Every time disaster strikes we respond with bewilderment.

The Guardian - Opinion

Any idea that they could not do this would have met with bewilderment".

The New Yorker

History will look back at China's one-child policy with bewilderment, even disbelief.

The New York Times

Sometimes with a sneer, sometimes with friendly curiosity, generally with bewilderment.

The New Yorker

"I can't dance that much longer," he says, almost with bewilderment.

The New Yorker

Referring to his time in captivity, Steinem said with bewilderment, "I mean, hello?

The New York Times

When family members introduce us to one of their friends, it is always with bewilderment camouflaged by hyperbole.

The New York Times - Books

Now such moments are met with bewilderment, part of a continuing mystery of his last three months.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with bewilderment" to clearly convey a character's confusion or lack of understanding in a narrative. It adds emotional depth and realism to the description.

Common error

Avoid using "with bewilderment" when a milder term like "surprise" or "curiosity" would be more appropriate. Bewilderment implies a deeper level of confusion and disorientation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with bewilderment" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is experienced. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with bewilderment" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a state of confusion and lack of understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. While versatile, it's important to use it appropriately to convey the intended level of confusion, avoiding overstatement. Alternatives like "in complete confusion" or "utterly baffled" can be used to add variety. Understanding these nuances can help improve the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in complete confusion

Focuses on the lack of clarity and understanding.

in a state of perplexity

This alternative uses more formal language to describe a state of being confused or puzzled.

with a puzzled expression

Focuses on the outward display of confusion through facial expression.

utterly baffled

This emphasizes the complete inability to understand something.

incredulously

Conveys disbelief and skepticism combined with confusion.

with wide-eyed surprise

Highlights the element of astonishment in addition to confusion.

nonplussed

A single word meaning confused and unsure how to react.

in a daze

Suggests a stunned and disoriented state of mind.

at a loss for words

Highlights the inability to express oneself due to confusion.

taken aback

Emphasizes the element of surprise and shock.

FAQs

How can I use "with bewilderment" in a sentence?

You can use "with bewilderment" to describe someone's reaction to something confusing or unexpected. For example, "She stared at the instructions "with bewilderment", unable to decipher the complicated steps".

What are some alternatives to "with bewilderment"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in complete confusion", "utterly baffled", or "with a puzzled expression", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "with bewilderment" or "in bewilderment"?

While both are grammatically correct, "with bewilderment" is more common and natural-sounding in contemporary English. "In bewilderment" is less frequently used but still understandable.

What's the difference between "with bewilderment" and "with surprise"?

"With surprise" indicates a feeling of astonishment at something unexpected. "With bewilderment", on the other hand, implies confusion and a lack of understanding in addition to surprise. Someone reacting "with bewilderment" is not just surprised but also puzzled.