perplexed crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "perplexed" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, along with explanations to help you solve your puzzle.
Solutions for "perplexed crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LOST: Unable to find one's way, or mentally confused.
5 Letters
DAZED: In a state of shock or bewilderment, often unable to think clearly.
ATSEA: An idiom meaning confused, bewildered, or in a difficult situation.
7 Letters
BEMUSED: Puzzled, confused, or bewildered, often in an absentminded way.
PUZZLED: Feeling or showing confusion because something is difficult to understand.
MUDDLED: Confused or disorganized; not thinking clearly.
STUMPED: Unable to answer a question or solve a problem due to difficulty.
8 Letters
CONFUSED: Unable to think clearly or understand; bewildered.
9 Letters
FLUMMOXED: Utterly perplexed or bewildered, often to the point of being speechless.
NONPLUSED: So surprised and confused that one is unsure how to react.
MYSTIFIED: Completely bewildered or perplexed, especially by something strange or inexplicable.
10 Letters
BEWILDERED: Caused someone to become perplexed and confused, often by a complex situation.
More About "perplexed crossword clue"
"Perplexed" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often requiring a synonym for a state of confusion, bewilderment, or being at a loss. The key to solving it lies in considering the number of letters required and the specific nuance of 'perplexed' that the puzzle setter intends. Sometimes it's a mild confusion (like BEMUSED), other times a complete inability to comprehend (like FLUMMOXED or BEWILDERED).
This clue can also lead to idiomatic expressions. For example, 'AT SEA' is a classic crossword answer for someone feeling perplexed or unsure. Always consider both direct synonyms and metaphorical phrases when tackling such a clue. The context of surrounding letters in your grid will often guide you to the precise solution among the many possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of squares available for your answer. This is the single most important factor in narrowing down possibilities for a clue like "perplexed".
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "perplexed," think of direct synonyms, but also consider if the clue is asking for an antonym with a trickier wording.
- Consider Common Idioms: Many crossword clues, including those about states of mind, often point to common idioms or phrases (e.g., "AT SEA" for perplexed). Keep a mental list of these.
- Use Cross-References: Don't just focus on the clue in isolation. Once you fill in a few letters from crossing words, revisit the "perplexed" clue. Those new letters will significantly reduce the possible answers.
- Practice Regularly: The more crosswords you do, the more familiar you'll become with common clue types and their typical answers, making "perplexed" and similar clues easier to solve.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "perplexed" and "confused" in crosswords?
While often interchangeable, "perplexed" can imply a deeper level of mental struggle or being at a loss for how to react, whereas "confused" is more general. In crosswords, both are viable answers, but letter count usually dictates which one is correct.
Can "perplexed" also be a verb clue in a crossword?
Yes, "perplexed" can appear as a verb (e.g., "Perplexed, as a mystery"). In such cases, answers like BAFFLED, MYSTIFIED, or DUMBFOUNDED might be expected, often in past tense or as a participle.
Why do some answers for "perplexed" seem so obscure?
Crossword setters love to use lesser-known synonyms or less common usages of words to challenge solvers. Sometimes, an answer that perfectly fits the letter count might be an older or more formal synonym of "perplexed."