puzzle over
To keep thinking about something because you can't understand it or find the answer.
Meanings
To think about something difficult or confusing for a long time, often without finding a clear answer.
"Scientists have puzzled over this strange phenomenon for decades."
To be genuinely confused or intrigued by someone's behavior or a puzzling situation.
"He sat at his desk, puzzling over why the experiment had produced such unexpected results."
Unlike 'puzzle out,' this verb emphasizes the process of being confused and thinking, not necessarily reaching an answer. Often used to describe prolonged uncertainty. Common in both British and American English. Frequently appears in past tense: 'puzzled over.'
Commonly used with
Forms
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