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Definitions

confusion

[kuhn-fyoo-zhuhn] / kənˈfyu ʒən /
NOUN
disorientation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bewilderment disorientation distraction embarrassment turbulence turmoil
STRONG
abashment agitation befuddlement bemusement chagrin commotion demoralization discomfiture dither flap fluster lather perplexity perturbation pother puzzlement stew tumult
WEAK
abashing addling befuddling blurring cluttering confounding disarranging discomfiting disturbing dumbfounding embarrassing embroiling mixup mystification obscuring perplexing stirring up tangling unsettling upsetting
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calm peace
STRONG
calmness happiness
WEAK
clarity composure method order organization orientation sense system
NOUN
disoriented state
Synonyms
STRONGEST
anarchy chaos complexity complication consternation difficulty disarray dislocation distraction mistake trouble turmoil upheaval
STRONG
abashment ado astonishment bustle clutter commotion daze discomposure disorganization ferment fog fracas haze imbroglio intricacy jumble labyrinth mess muddle mystification pandemonium perturbation racket riot row shambles stir stupefaction surprise tangle tumult untidiness uproar wilderness
WEAK
emotional upset hodge-podge
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calm contentment ease happiness harmony order organization peace simplicity tranquility
STRONG
agreement calmness clearness expectation neatness tidiness understanding
WEAK
clarity composure method orientation sense system

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the confusion and the noise, she's trying to locate her friend.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Its performance across platforms is reliable, though some users report occasional UI lag and confusion when navigating settings.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Using a fictitious group gives Iran plausible deniability while amplifying confusion, said Julian Lanchès of the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

It was confusion, or maybe wishful thinking, or was it outright defiance?

From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026

He even grinned, causing Trey’s head to swivel between us in confusion.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.