B2adjectiveemotionspsychology
US/ˈpʌz.əld/
UK/ˈpʌz.əld/
confused because you cannot understand or explain something
In context
He gave me a puzzled look when I mentioned the meeting.
I was puzzled by her sudden decision to leave the company.
The children looked puzzled when the teacher asked the question again.
Words that go with puzzled
adjective + noun
- puzzled lookShe gave him a puzzled look.
- puzzled expressionA puzzled expression crossed his face.
adjective + preposition
- puzzled byWe were puzzled by the strange noise.
- puzzled aboutMany voters are puzzled about the new rules.
adverb + adjective
- slightly puzzledHe seemed slightly puzzled by the question.
- completely puzzledI was completely puzzled by the instructions.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The result is puzzled.Correct: The result is puzzling.