Puzzle
Channel: English Unpacked
Date: 2024-01-05

The word "puzzle" is often used to describe a problem or a game that requires mental effort and logical thinking to solve. It can also refer to a situation or a question that is confusing or difficult to understand. 
As a noun, "puzzle" typically refers to a game or a problem that challenges one's thinking abilities. For example:
1. Jigsaw puzzles: These are popular games where you have to fit together various interlocking pieces to form a complete picture. For instance, "I spent hours working on a 500-piece puzzle of a beautiful landscape."
2. Crossword puzzles: These are word games that involve filling in words into a grid based on given clues. For example, "I always enjoy solving the crossword puzzle in the newspaper every morning."
3. Brain teasers: These are riddles or questions designed to test one's thinking skills. For instance, "Can you solve this puzzle: What has keys but can't open locks?"
As a verb, "puzzle" means to confuse or bewilder someone. It is often used when something is difficult to understand or figure out. For example:
1. "The professor's lecture on quantum physics puzzled the students as it was full of complex concepts and theories."
2. "The mystery novel had a twist ending that puzzled even the most astute readers."
3. "I'm puzzled by the sudden change in my friend's behavior. I don't understand why they are acting this way."
In summary, "puzzle" can refer to a challenging game or problem that requires mental effort, as well as a situation or question that is confusing or difficult to understand.