# puzzling

/ˈpəzəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /pˈʌzlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/puzzling
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.