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A state of being confused or puzzled.
The sudden change in policy left the employees in bewilderment.
The unexpected policy change confused the employees.
He looked at the instructions with bewilderment, not understanding a word.
He stared at the instructions, completely puzzled by what he read.
Often used to describe a strong feeling of confusion, especially when something is unexpected or complex.
While 'bewilderment' is a strong word, it can sound overly dramatic in casual conversation. Reserve it for situations where confusion is profound or deeply felt.
Reserve 'bewilderment' for situations where someone is genuinely overwhelmed or lost, not for minor misunderstandings.
From the verb 'bewilder' (1680s), meaning 'to lead into error' or 'to confound with fear,' which combines 'be-' (thoroughly) + 'wilder' (to lead astray, from Middle English 'wildren,' related to 'wild'). The noun form 'bewilderment' emerged in the late 18th century.
Bewilderment implies a deeper or more overwhelming confusion than 'confusion' alone. It often suggests a sense of being lost or overwhelmed by complexity or novelty.