B1verb1K

Confuse

UK /["/kənˈfjuːz/","/kənˈfjuːzɪz/","/kənˈfjuːzd/","/kənˈfjuːzɪŋ/"]/US /["/kənˈfjuːz/","/kənˈfjuːzɪz/","/kənˈfjuːzd/","/kənˈfjuːzɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make somebody unable to think clearly or understand something

In simple words: to mix up or not understand something

Examples

  • The instructions were so complicated that they began to confuse everyone in the room.
  • I often confuse the two similar-looking plants in my garden.
  • Don't confuse the two terms; they have different meanings.
  • He tends to confuse excitement with anxiety when speaking in public.
  • If you confuse me with someone else, I won't be able to help you.

Usage notes

Use 'confuse' in situations where something isn't clear. This word is neutral and can be used in both casual and formal contexts. Avoid using it to describe feelings directly; prefer 'confused' instead.

Grammar pattern

confuse + object

Memory hint

Think of 'confuse' like a puzzle that’s hard to put together.

Collocations

  • completely
  • really
  • thoroughly
  • easily
  • for
  • with
  • completely
  • really
  • thoroughly

Synonyms

  • bewilder
  • baffle
  • perplex
  • mistake
  • misunderstand

Antonyms

  • clarify
  • understand
  • explain

Common mistakes

  • Using 'confuse' with a subject instead of an object (e.g., saying 'it confuses')
  • Mixing up 'confuse' with 'confused' (word forms)
  • Confusing 'confuse' with 'perplex' (different levels of misunderstanding)