Langimage
English

confuse

|con-fuse|

B2

🇺🇸

/kənˈfjuz/

🇬🇧

/kənˈfjuːz/

lack of clarity

Etymology
Etymology Information

'confuse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'confundere,' where 'con-' meant 'together' and 'fundere' meant 'to pour.'

Historical Evolution

'confundere' transformed into the Old French word 'confus,' and eventually became the modern English word 'confuse' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to mix or blend together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make unclear or indistinct.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make someone unable to think clearly or understand something.

The instructions confused me.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to mistake one thing for another.

I often confuse her with her sister.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35