OpenSynonym

baffles

VERB

1. To confuse or bewilder someone

To make someone unable to understand, explain, or make sense of something.

1.1. Causing confusion or perplexity

Making someone feel confused, puzzled, or unable to understand something because it is difficult, mysterious, or unexpected.

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Antonyms

Examples

  • The complicated instructions baffle new users.
  • The scientist's unexpected findings baffle researchers.
  • His sudden change in behavior baffles his friends and family.

Related Words

  • disconcerts
  • disorients
  • dismays
  • disquiets
  • distresses
  • disturbs
  • flusters
  • perturbs
  • unsettles
  • upsets

1.2. Deceiving or tricking someone

Leading someone to believe something false or misleading, often by confusing or misleading them.

Synonyms

Antonyms

  • enlightens
  • informs

Examples

  • The fraudulent advertisement baffles customers into believing the product has benefits it does not possess.
  • The elaborate scheme baffles unsuspecting investors.

Related Words

  • beguiles
  • buffaloes
  • humbugs
  • hoaxes
  • strings along

VERB

2. To obstruct or frustrate an effort

To prevent, hinder, or make it difficult for someone to achieve an objective or carry out a plan.

2.1. Hindering or preventing progress

Creating obstacles that delay, obstruct, or prevent an action, plan, or effort from succeeding.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

  • Unexpected technical problems baffle the team's efforts to complete the project.
  • Strict regulations baffle attempts to expand the business.
  • The security measures baffle unauthorized access to the facility.

Related Words