Words / B2

k-uh-n-FYOOZHN/kənˈfjuːʒn/

Confusion is a state of not understanding, or of being mixed up: cause confusion, in confusion. Mix-up is informal; chaos is stronger (disorder, not only unclear thinking). Confuse is the verb; confusing and confused are adjectives (a confusing map; a confused student). In speech, a mix-up or nobody knew is enough. Confusion is the state; do not write “a confusion” for every small misunderstanding unless you mean one muddled episode.

Meaning

A state of not understanding, or of being mixed up.

Examples

• “The new timetable caused confusion.”
• “The new timetable caused confusion: two groups arrived for the same room.”
• “In the confusion after the alarm, registers were still completed outside.”

Good to know

A mixed-up, unclear state. Verb: confuse. Everyday: mix-up. Adjectives: confusing (it) / confused (you). Stronger: chaos.

Near in meaning

mix-up

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