Translation guide
The state of being confused, puzzled, or uncertain. In Japanese, this is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and verbs that convey mental confusion, bewilderment, or being at a loss.
Expressing a general feeling of being perplexed, confused, or unable to understand something.
A common noun meaning bewilderment or embarrassment due to not knowing what to do. Often used with する to mean 'to be perplexed'.
I was perplexed by his sudden question.
Similar to 困惑 but often implies being at a loss or embarrassed, sometimes with a stronger sense of not knowing how to react.
She was perplexed by the offer.
A noun meaning confusion or being flustered, often from an unexpected situation. The verb form is 戸惑う (とまどう).
I felt perplexity in the new environment.
Means confusion or disorder, often used for mental confusion or chaotic situations. Less specific to personal perplexity but common.
The explanation was complicated and I got confused.
Describing the emotional state of being puzzled, not knowing what to think or do.
An idiomatic phrase meaning to be at a complete loss, not knowing what to do. Conveys a strong sense of perplexity.
He was at a loss after the sudden dismissal.
A verb meaning to be lost, waver, or be unable to decide. Often used for indecision, but can imply perplexity.
Referring to a thing, situation, or fact that is perplexing or puzzling.
困惑 is the most general for mental perplexity. 当惑 often includes embarrassment or being taken aback. 戸惑い implies being flustered or disoriented by an unexpected situation. All can be used with する or 感じる.
I was perplexed and embarrassed by his rude attitude.
I was bewildered on my first trip abroad.
English 'perplexity' is often used as an abstract noun, but Japanese prefers verbal or adjectival expressions. Instead of saying 'I felt perplexity', use 困惑した or 戸惑った.
I was perplexed.
どの道を選べばいいか迷っている。
I'm perplexed about which path to choose.
Literally 'to hold one's head', meaning to be deeply troubled or perplexed by a problem.
The problem is so difficult that I'm racking my brains.
The incident left many perplexities.