Spanish word

perplejo

Pronunciation

IPA/peɾˈplexo/

Meaning

  • adjectivepuzzled

Example

Me siento perplejo por esa noticia.

I feel puzzled by that news.

Illustration for perplejo (puzzled)

More examples

Cuando escuchó la explicación, se quedó perplejo por un momento.

When he heard the explanation, he was left perplexed for a moment.

Core concept

Momentary stunned silence after surprising news.

Common phrases

  • estar perplejo

    be perplexed

  • quedarse perplejo

    be left perplexed

Similar words

confundido: Mentally unclear about what is happening, puzzled over meaning or how to respond.
desorientado: Disoriented in place or circumstance, lacking bearings and unsure what to do next.
desconcertado: Surprised and flustered, reacting with visible unease and loss of composure.

Definition in Spanish

Que se siente confundido y paralizado ante algo inesperado, sin saber qué decir o hacer.

Word origin

From Latin perplexus 'entangled', formed from per- and plectere 'to weave', the literal sense of being woven together explains the puzzled, paralyzed reaction.

Usage tips

  • Estar perplejo tends to describe a felt state, while quedarse perplejo highlights a sudden, frozen reaction.

Other meanings

  • confusedadjective

Opposites

  • seguroconfidentadjective
  • decididodecisiveadjective

Related words

Word lists with this word