Bemusement - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Bemusement refers to a state of mild confusion or puzzlement, often mixed with amusement. It describes someone who is slightly bewildered but not seriously troubled by something unexpected or unclear.
Definition:
A state of confusion or puzzlement, often mixed with mild amusement.
Synonyms:
perplexity, bewilderment, puzzlement, confusion
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
clarity, understanding
Common Collocations:
look of bemusement, cause bemusement, express bemusement
Derivatives:
bemuse, bemused, bemusing
Usage Tips:
Use "bemusement" to describe mild confusion with a hint of amusement, not deep frustration or anger.
Common Phrases:
shake one's head in bemusement, regard with bemusement, smile in bemusement
Etymology:
Derived from "bemuse" (mid-18th century), combining "be-" (thoroughly) and "muse" (ponder).
Examples:
- 1. Her bemusement was clear when she tilted her head at the odd painting.
- 2. The teacher's joke left the class in cheerful bemusement.
- 3. He watched the chaotic scene with quiet bemusement.
- 4. The instructions caused more bemusement than clarity among the students.