confusingly

Confusingly is an adverb that means “in a way that causes confusion or is hard to understand.” It is formed from the adjective confusing with the suffix -ly, and describes the manner in which something is perceived as ambiguous, complex, or misleading.

Common contexts for confusingly include written instructions, maps, data presentations, and labeling or wording that invites multiple interpretations. Examples: The instructions were confusingly worded. The map is confusingly annotated. The chart is confusingly labeled. Grammatically, confusingly can modify verbs, adjectives, or entire clauses, as in The directions were confusingly vague or The plan is confusingly complex.

Usage notes and reception: confusingly often carries a mild to moderate evaluative tone, signaling criticism of clarity or precision. It is typically used in formal or semi-formal writing and is most natural when the speaker aims to highlight a source of misunderstanding rather than an emotional state. In some cases, it may emphasize deliberate opacity, while in others it points to unintentional ambiguity.

Related terms include perplexing, puzzling, ambiguous, or opaque, which convey overlapping ideas about clarity and interpretation. The adverb contrasts with clearly or unambiguously, which express the opposite degree of understandability. Pronunciation is generally kən-FYOO-zing-lee.