1 B2 neutral
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."
inseparable
puzzle over
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To think hard and with some confusion about something that is difficult to understand.
In plain English
To keep thinking about something because you can't understand it or find the answer.
What does "puzzle over" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To lean over a puzzle, examining it from different angles — suggesting repeated, frustrated examination.
Actually means
To keep thinking about something because you can't understand it or find the answer.
Usage tip
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.'
Words that pair with "puzzle over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
question problem mystery meaning decision result
How to conjugate "puzzle over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
puzzle over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
puzzles over
he/she/it
Past simple
puzzled over
yesterday
Past participle
puzzled over
have + pp
-ing form
puzzling over
continuous
Hear "puzzle over" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "puzzle over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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