English Reference
Adjective

puzzling

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈpəzəɫɪŋ/ UK /pˈʌzlɪŋ/ puz·zling UK spelling puzzlings

adj.confusing and difficult to understand. You use this to describe something that feels like a mystery or a problem you cannot solve.

adj.causing confusion or perplexity due to being difficult to explain or understand. Often used to describe situations, behaviors, or evidence that lack a clear logical pattern.


SIMPLE

The detective found a puzzling clue at the scene.

CONTEXTUAL

The sudden change in the weather was puzzling to the scientists who had predicted a sunny day.

COMPLEX

Despite years of intensive research, the disappearance of the ancient civilization remains a puzzling mystery that continues to divide the archaeological community.

Usage

Typically used attributively before a noun or predicatively after linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'find'.

These events remain puzzling and require follow-up research.

ScienceDaily· 30 Aug 2026

That hidden heat could help explain several other puzzling features of Mars.

ScienceDaily· 30 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated