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Dictionary definition of confuse

To cause a state of uncertainty, misunderstanding, or disorientation in someone or something.
"The teacher's explanation only served to confuse the students further."

Detailed meaning of confuse

When someone confuses, they generate a sense of perplexity or ambiguity by presenting information, ideas, or situations that are difficult to comprehend or differentiate. Confusing can occur through various means, such as providing conflicting instructions, presenting complex concepts without clarity, or using language that is unclear or misleading. This verb often leads to a lack of clarity, making it challenging for individuals to grasp or make sense of what is being communicated. Confusion can arise in various contexts, including academic settings, interpersonal relationships, technical processes, and decision-making scenarios. Resolving confusion usually requires further clarification, simplification, or the provision of additional context to help restore understanding and clear up any misunderstandings.

Example sentences of confuse

1. Please don't mix up the files as it will confuse the entire filing system.
2. The complex instructions in the manual confused the new users.
3. His contradictory statements confused everyone in the room.
4. The sudden change in plans confused me about what to do next.
5. The similar-sounding words often confuse English language learners.
6. The technical jargon used in the presentation confused the audience.

History and etymology of confuse

The verb 'confuse' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'confundere,' which is a combination of 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'fundere' meaning 'to pour' or 'to mix.' This etymology vividly conveys the essence of 'confuse' as the act of mixing things together mentally or causing a state of uncertainty and disorientation. It implies a sense of jumbling or blending different ideas, concepts, or perceptions, leading to a lack of clarity or misunderstanding. The term 'confuse' maintains its etymological connection to the concept of mental mixing or blending, highlighting the resulting state of uncertainty or perplexity that arises when things are not distinct or clear in one's mind.

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Further usage examples of confuse

1. The sudden shift in tone of the movie confused the viewers.
2. The conflicting information from various sources only added to the confusion.
3. The ambiguous signage at the airport confused the travelers.
4. The maze of hallways in the building confused visitors trying to find their way.
5. Her explanation was so convoluted that it only served to confuse matters further.
6. The complex instructions can easily confuse users.
7. His contradictory statements continued to confuse us.
8. The maze was designed to confuse participants.
9. Misleading information can confuse consumers.
10. The sudden change in plans seemed to confuse everyone.
11. The dense fog can confuse even experienced drivers.
12. Her multiple personas often confuse her friends.
13. The technical jargon can confuse non-experts.
14. Emotional turmoil can confuse decision-making.
15. The intricate plot of the movie may confuse some viewers.
16. Rapid changes in weather patterns can confuse forecasters.
17. The conflicting advice from experts can confuse patients.
18. Mixing up the ingredients might confuse the recipe.
19. The teacher's unclear explanation only confused the students.
20. The intricate web of lies continued to confuse investigators.
21. Complex financial data can easily confuse investors.
22. His sudden disappearance continues to confuse authorities.
23. The overlapping responsibilities can confuse team members.
24. The constant interruptions can confuse concentration.
25. The cryptic message seemed to confuse even the experts.