Basic Details
Word: Bemuse
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To confuse or puzzle someone.
Synonyms: Bewilder, mystify, bemuddle
Antonyms: Clarify, enlighten, explain
Idioms and Phrases
- Bemused expression: A facial expression that shows confusion or distraction. Example: "He had a bemused expression when he heard the complicated joke."
- Bemused by the situation: A phrase used when someone is confused by what is happening. Example: "She felt bemused by the unexpected turn of events during the meeting."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The complicated instructions bemused the students, making it difficult for them to complete the project.
Example 2: As the magician performed his tricks, the audience was left bemused and wondering how he did it.
Example 3: She was bemused by all the different flavours of ice cream available at the shop.
Fun Fact
The word "bemuse" comes from the prefix "be-" meaning "to make" and "muse," which comes from the Old French word "muser," meaning "to ponder." So, it literally means to make someone ponder or think deeply—which sometimes can lead to confusion!
Famous Quote
"I would rather be a bemused philosopher than an undisturbed sheep." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "bemuse" mean?
a) To help someone
b) To confuse or puzzle someone
c) To entertain people
d) To make people happy
Answer: b) To confuse or puzzle someone
2. Which of these is a synonym of "bemuse"?
a) Clarify
b) Bewilder
c) Explain
d) Enlighten
Answer: b) Bewilder
3. Which word is an antonym of "bemuse"?
a) Bewilder
b) Clarify
c) Confuse
d) Bemuddle
Answer: b) Clarify
4. Which sentence uses "bemuse" correctly?
a) The story bemused him because he understood everything.
b) She was bemused by the surprise party her friends planned.
c) The clear instructions bemused the children.
d) He bemused his homework last night.
Answer: b) She was bemused by the surprise party her friends planned.
5. What does it mean to be "bemused by the situation"?
a) To feel entertained
b) To feel happy
c) To feel confused by what is happening
d) To feel excited for something
Answer: c) To feel confused by what is happening
