Translation guide
How to express being unable to answer, solve, or understand something, often due to difficulty or lack of knowledge.
Expressing that you are stuck on a question, puzzle, or problem and cannot find the answer or solution.
The most direct and common way to say you don't know or can't figure something out. Can be used in many contexts.
I'm stumped by this problem.
Expressing that you cannot grasp the meaning, reason, or situation.
Directly means 'cannot understand'. Suitable for formal and informal situations.
Expressing that you are so surprised, confused, or overwhelmed that you cannot think of what to say or do.
Literally 'words don't come out'. Used when you are speechless or stumped for a reply.
There is no single Japanese verb that directly translates 'to be stumped'. Using a literal translation like '切り株にされる' would be nonsensical. Instead, use phrases that convey the specific nuance of being stuck or at a loss.
Literally 'cannot produce an answer'. Used when you are unable to come up with a solution.
I was stumped by the difficult question and couldn't come up with an answer.
Means 'to be troubled' or 'at a loss'. Often used when you are stumped and don't know what to do.
I was stumped when asked suddenly.
Idiom meaning 'unable to do anything', 'completely at a loss'. Stronger than just being stumped; implies total helplessness.
This puzzle is so hard I'm completely stumped.
His explanation was so complicated I was stumped.
Literally 'don't understand the meaning'. Common in casual speech.
I'm stumped by the meaning of this word.
Emphatic way to say 'I have no idea' or 'I'm completely stumped'. Conveys total lack of understanding.
I'm completely stumped in math class.
I was so stunned I was stumped for words.
Means 'to be at a loss for a reply'. Used when you don't know how to respond to a question or statement.
I was stumped for a reply to his sudden proposal.
Literally 'don't know how to answer'. A straightforward way to express being stumped for a response.
I was stumped as to how to answer that question.