English 
español 
française 
italiano 
deutsche 
日本語 
polski 
česky 
svenska 
Türkçe 
Nederlands 
Decoding confusion: "mystifying" vs. "baffling"
Lloyd Cooper 16/10/2024, 06:46
What is similar?
Both "mystifying" and "baffling" describe situations or things that are difficult to understand or explain. They are often used interchangeably to convey a sense of confusion or puzzlement.
What is different?
"Mystifying" often suggests an element of mystery or an enigmatic quality, sometimes with a connotation of intrigue or wonder. "Baffling" emphasizes the inability to understand something, often highlighting complexity or unexpectedness, but typically without the allure of intrigue.
Which one is more common?
Examples of usage
Mystifying- The magician's tricks were truly mystifying, leaving the audience in awe.
- The mysterious disappearance of the ancient artifact remains mystifying to historians.
- Her sudden change in behavior was mystifying to everyone who knew her.
- The math problem was so complex that it was completely baffling to the students.
- It's baffling to think how they managed to escape without a trace.
- The instructions were so poorly written that they were utterly baffling.
Recommended posts in 
Difference
Gardening vs. cultivation: Understanding the difference
Gardening generally refers to a hobby or small-scale activity typically ... Learn more →
"Apathetic" vs. "indifferent": same tune, different lyrics
"Apathetic" often conveys a deeper sense of emotional numbness or ... Learn more →
"Seller" vs. "merchant": two faces of trade
A "seller" is a more general term that can refer ... Learn more →
"Relentlessly" vs. "mercilessly": two sides of pursuit
Relentlessly implies persistence regardless of obstacles, while mercilessly adds a ... Learn more →