Follow Us on
State of befuddlement (10) - Crossword Clue
Answer: PERPLEXITY
Understanding the Crossword Clue: State of Befuddlement
- Perplexity is the perfect 10-letter answer to "state of befuddlement" in crossword puzzles.
- This noun describes a condition of complete confusion, bewilderment, or puzzlement where someone feels utterly unable to understand or make sense of a situation.
- When you're in a state of perplexity, your mind is tangled with uncertainty, questions swirl without clear answers, and clarity seems frustratingly out of reach.
Why PERPLEXITY Fits This Clue
- The word perplexity captures the essence of befuddlement through its meaning and structure.
- Derived from the Latin "perplexus" (meaning entangled or confused), perplexity conveys a mental state where thoughts become intertwined and comprehension becomes difficult.
- Crossword constructors favor this answer because it's sophisticated yet accessible, combining common letter patterns with intellectual vocabulary that solvers appreciate.
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Look for letter count indicators: The number in parentheses (10) immediately tells you the answer length, narrowing your options significantly.
- Consider synonyms systematically: Befuddlement relates to confusion, bewilderment, puzzlement, and uncertainty. Think through 10-letter variations of these concepts.
- Check crossing letters first: Fill in intersecting words to reveal letters in PERPLEXITY, making the answer more obvious even if you're uncertain.
- Think sophisticated vocabulary: Crosswords often prefer elevated language over simple terms. "Perplexity" sounds more elegant than "confusion," making it crossword-friendly.
- Remember common patterns: Many 10-letter words ending in "-ITY" describe states or conditions (complexity,uality, opportunity), which can guide your thinking.
- Use word roots: Recognizing the "plex" root (meaning folded or twisted) helps connect to the tangled nature of befuddlement.
State of befuddlement (10) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Are there other 10-letter answers for "state of befuddlement"?
A: While PERPLEXITY is the most common answer, "puzzlement" (10 letters) occasionally appears, though it's less frequently used in crosswords due to the double-Z being restrictive for crossing words.
Q: What's the difference between perplexity and confusion?
A: Perplexity suggests a deeper, more complex state of befuddlement involving uncertainty and inability to understand despite effort, while confusion can be simpler and more temporary.
Q: How common is this clue in crosswords?
A: "State of befuddlement" and similar phrasings appear regularly in medium to challenging crosswords, particularly in publications like The New York Times, LA Times, and crossword puzzle books.
Q: Can PERPLEXITY be used as a verb?
A: No, but the related verb is "perplex," meaning to cause someone to feel confused or puzzled.
Q: What are good strategies when stuck on a long word like this?
A: Focus on solving surrounding clues first to reveal letters, consider common endings like -TION, -MENT, -ITY, and think about whether the answer is a noun, verb, or adjective based on the clue's phrasing.
