The phrase "puzzle out" means to solve a difficult problem or mystery through careful thought and analysis. The pronunciation of "puzzle out" is /ˈpʌz(ə)l aʊt/ with the stress on the first syllable, "puz." The word "puzzle" is spelled with a double "z" and the letter "l" because it comes from the Old French "puzle," which means "bewilderment or confusion." The word "out" is pronounced as it is spelled and comes from the Old English "ūt" meaning "outside or beyond."
The term "puzzle out" refers to the act of solving or figuring out a complex or perplexing situation, problem, or mystery through the use of deliberate, thoughtful, and systematic reasoning. It involves engaging in a mental process that includes various strategies, such as analysis, logic, deduction, inference, and critical thinking, in order to reach a solution or understanding.
The phrase often implies the presence of something puzzling, intricate, or cryptic that requires careful examination and thoughtful consideration to unravel. It suggests an active and deliberate approach to finding an answer or uncovering the truth, rather than relying on guesswork or random attempts.
When individuals "puzzle out" a situation, problem, or mystery, they often engage in a series of steps or actions aimed at breaking it down into smaller, more manageable parts. This might involve gathering relevant information, exploring different perspectives, asking probing questions, considering potential solutions or explanations, testing hypotheses, and evaluating evidence.
The act of "puzzling out" often requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty and ambiguity. It is commonly associated with cognitive skills, including analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, creativity, and lateral thinking.
Overall, "puzzle out" embodies the process of deciphering or discovering the solution or meaning behind a complex or puzzling matter through deliberate and systematic mental efforts.
The phrase "puzzle out" has its roots in the Middle English word "puslen", which means "to be confused or bewildered". The word later evolved into "puzzle" with a similar meaning. The addition of "out" to "puzzle" likely originated in the 17th century, enhancing the sense of solving or working out a perplexing or intricate problem or situation. Over time, "puzzle out" became a common expression to describe the act of figuring something out through careful thought and analysis.