Bijzelen

Bijzelen is a Dutch verb that translates to "to stun," "to daze," or "to bewilder" in English. It describes a state of being temporarily unable to think clearly or react due to shock, surprise, or overwhelming emotion. This state can be brought on by various circumstances, such as witnessing a shocking event, receiving unexpected news, or experiencing a sudden realization.

The feeling of being bijzeld can range from mild disorientation to a complete inability to process information. It often involves a momentary pause in thought or action, as the mind struggles to comprehend the situation. In some instances, bijzelen might be a temporary response that quickly passes, while in others, it could lead to a more prolonged period of confusion or distress.

The word is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe reactions to surprising or difficult situations. For example, someone might say they were "bijzeld" by a sudden outburst or "bijzeld" by an unexpected turn of events. The term emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the stimulus, which temporarily incapacitates the individual's cognitive functions.