Word
puzzling
Phoneticspuz·zling
US/ˈpəzəɫɪŋ/
UK/pˈʌzlɪŋ/
Definition
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.
Examples
“The detective found a puzzling clue at the scene.”
“The sudden change in the weather was puzzling to the scientists who had predicted a sunny day.”
“Despite years of intensive research, the disappearance of the ancient civilization remains a puzzling mystery that continues to divide the archaeological community.”
Examples
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'.
Real-World Examples
“These events remain puzzling and require follow-up research.” “That hidden heat could help explain several other puzzling features of Mars.” “Once in position, the telescope will take data that astronomers like me hope will help answer some of the field’s most puzzling questions.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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