Basic Details
Word: Bewilder
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To confuse or puzzle someone.
Synonyms: Confuse, baffle, perplex
Antonyms: Clarify, enlighten, explain
Idioms and Phrases
- Bewildered as a child: Used to describe someone who feels lost or confused, similar to how a child might feel in a new place. Example: "Upon entering the massive museum, I felt bewildered as a child, not knowing where to go first."
- Bewildering choice: Refers to a decision that is confusing due to many options. Example: "The menu was filled with so many dishes, making it a bewildering choice for dinner."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The magicians tricks left the audience completely bewildered and amazed.
Example 2: She was bewildered by the complex instructions for assembling the furniture.
Example 3: The sudden change in plans bewildered everyone in the team.
Fun Fact
The word "bewilder" comes from the early 17th century, combining the prefix "be-" (meaning "to make") with "wilder," which means "to lead astray." It reflects the idea of leading someone off the right path, resulting in confusion.
Famous Quote
"The greatest minds are capable of the greatest vices as well as of the greatest virtues." - Ren Descartes. This quote hints at how even the most intelligent individuals can become bewildered by their own thoughts and decisions.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "bewilder" mean?
a) To make something clear
b) To confuse or puzzle
c) To make someone happy
d) To remember something
Answer: b) To confuse or puzzle
2. Which of these is a synonym of "bewilder"?
a) Clarify
b) Enlighten
c) Confuse
d) Explain
Answer: c) Confuse
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "bewilder"?
a) Perplex
b) Baffle
c) Clarify
d) Confuse
Answer: c) Clarify
4. Which sentence uses "bewilder" correctly?
a) The puzzle left me bewildered and I could not solve it.
b) I was bewildered by the warmth of the sun on a cold day.
c) She felt bewildered and asked for help with the garden.
d) My friend was bewildered when she won the lottery.
Answer: a) The puzzle left me bewildered and I could not solve it.
5. What does the phrase "bewildering choice" refer to?
a) A simple decision
b) A confusing decision due to many options
c) A funny choice
d) A happy moment
Answer: b) A confusing decision due to many options
