Nonplussed
Adjective
- Unsure about what to say, think, or do; perplexed.
- (Chiefly U.S.) Not bothered, surprised, or impressed by something.
Example Sentences
“I was nonplussed by the sudden change in plans and didn’t know how to respond.”
“The unexpected compliment left her pleasantly, if slightly, nonplussed.”
“She was unusually nonplussed by the dramatic announcement everyone else gasped at.”
Word Origin
English, late 16th century
Why this word?
The noun “nonplus” is borrowed directly from Latin, in which “non plus” means “not more.” The original 16th-century usage meant “a state in which no more can be said or done,” and it evolved to mean “a state of being surprised and confused.” In the adjective sense, “nonplussed” officially means “unsure what to say, think, do” or “perplexed.” However, the “non” part of the word has left many American speakers nonplussed. It’s not a standard “non-” prefix that would have a negative meaning, but people want it to work that way. As such, so many folks have used “nonplussed” to mean “not surprised” or “not impressed” that it has become accepted in American English. So, you can use the adjective “nonplussed” to mean “confused” or “not confused” — just look out for context clues.
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