Basic Details
Word: Perplex
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To confuse someone or make them unsure about something.
Synonyms: Bewilder, confuse, puzzle
Antonyms: Clarify, explain, enlighten
Idioms and Phrases
- Perplexed as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs: This phrase describes someone who feels very confused and unsure about what to do. Example: "When he saw the complicated math problem, he was perplexed as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs."
- In a perplexing situation: Referring to a confusing or difficult circumstance. Example: "She found herself in a perplexing situation when she realised she had lost her wallet."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The riddle was so tricky that it perplexed all the students in the class.
Example 2: The unexpected news from her friend left her feeling perplexed and uncertain about what to do next.
Example 3: The scientist's complicated theory perplexed many in the audience, who were left with more questions than answers.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "perplex" comes from the Latin word "perplexus," which means "entangled" or "intricated"? It gives a sense of being caught in a complicated situation!
Famous Quote
"The more I know, the more I realise I know nothing." - Socrates
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "perplex" mean?
a) To excite someone
b) To confuse someone
c) To help someone
d) To alarm someone
Answer: b) To confuse someone
2. Which of these is a synonym of "perplex"?
a) Explain
b) Brighten
c) Bewilder
d) Clarify
Answer: c) Bewilder
3. Which of these is an antonym of "perplex"?
a) Confuse
b) Enlighten
c) Puzzle
d) Bewilder
Answer: b) Enlighten
4. Which sentence uses "perplex" correctly?
a) The teacher perplexed the students with a clear explanation.
b) The unexpected turn of events perplexed him completely.
c) She felt perplexed after receiving good news.
d) The book was so straightforward that it could not perplex anyone.
Answer: b) The unexpected turn of events perplexed him completely.
5. What does the idiom "in a perplexing situation" mean?
a) In a confusing circumstance
b) In a fun adventure
c) In a peaceful place
d) In a busy crowd
Answer: a) In a confusing circumstance
