perplex

What does “perplex” mean?

verb.(of something complicated or unaccountable) to cause (someone) to feel completely baffled.

SAT Usage

the term often appears in contexts involving complex problems, philosophical dilemmas, or scientific inquiries. It emphasizes a deep level of confusion or bewilderment that goes beyond simple misunderstanding, suggesting that the subject is intricately challenging or counterintuitive, distinguishing it from terms like "confuse" which implies a more general lack of clarity.

Common Confusions

Perplex implies a deep level of bafflement often due to complexity, while confuse usually suggests a more general lack of clarity or understanding without the same intricate challenge.

Example Sentences

• The strange symbols continued to perplex even experienced researchers.

• The sudden disappearance of the ancient artifact continued to perplex the archaeologists, who had dedicated years to studying its history and significance in the local culture.

Word Parts: How to Remember “perplex”

Break “perplex” into its parts: per- (through, thoroughly) + -plex- (fold, interweave). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: per- through, thoroughly (Latin)
• Root: -plex- fold, interweave (Latin)