Top 51 Slang For Not Knowing – Meaning & Usage

Ever found yourself in a conversation where everyone seems to be in on a joke except you? Not knowing the latest slang can leave you feeling out of the loop. Fear not, our team has got you covered with a curated list of the most popular phrases and words that will have you nodding along confidently in no time. Stay tuned to upgrade your slang game and never feel lost in a sea of trendy expressions again!

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1. Clueless

When someone is clueless, it means they have no idea or understanding about a particular topic or situation.

For example, if someone asks you a complex question about quantum physics and you have no idea how to answer, you might say, “Sorry, I’m clueless when it comes to that.”
If someone is talking about a popular TV show you’ve never heard of, you might say, “I’m clueless about that show, I’ve never watched it.”
When someone is giving you directions to a new restaurant and you have no idea where it is, you might say, “I’m completely clueless about the location, can you give me landmarks instead?”

2. In the dark

Being in the dark means not having any knowledge or information about a specific situation or topic.

For instance, if your friends are planning a surprise party for you and you have no idea, you could say, “I’m completely in the dark about the party.”
If your boss announces a major company change during a meeting and you had no prior knowledge, you might say, “I was completely in the dark about this decision.”
When someone is discussing a recent news event and you have no information about it, you might say, “I’m sorry, I’m totally in the dark about what you’re talking about.”

3. Lost

When someone is lost, it means they are completely unaware or confused about a situation or topic.

For example, if someone is explaining a complex math problem to you and you have no idea how to solve it, you might say, “I’m completely lost, can you explain it again?”
If someone is talking about a new trend or meme that you haven’t heard of, you might say, “I’m completely lost, what is everyone talking about?”
When someone is discussing a movie plot twist that you didn’t see coming, you might say, “I was totally lost during that scene, I didn’t see that twist coming at all.”

4. Ignorant

Being ignorant means lacking knowledge or awareness about a particular subject or situation.

For instance, if someone is talking about a famous historical event and you have no knowledge about it, you might say, “I’m completely ignorant about that event.”
If someone is discussing a complex scientific theory and you have no understanding of it, you might say, “I’m completely ignorant when it comes to that kind of science.”
When someone is explaining the rules of a new game and you have no idea how to play, you might say, “I’m totally ignorant about this game, can you teach me how to play?”

5. Out of the loop

Being out of the loop means not being included or informed about a particular topic or situation that others are aware of.

For example, if your friends are all talking about a recent celebrity scandal and you have no idea what they’re discussing, you might say, “I feel so out of the loop, what happened?”
If your coworkers are discussing a new company policy that you haven’t heard about, you might say, “I’m completely out of the loop, when was this policy announced?”
When someone is talking about a popular TV show that you haven’t watched, you might say, “I’m totally out of the loop when it comes to that show, I’ve never seen it.”

6. Oblivious

This term refers to someone who is completely unaware or ignorant about something. It implies a lack of knowledge or understanding.

For example, if someone asks, “Did you see the sign?” and you reply, “What sign?” you could be described as oblivious.
In a conversation about current events, someone might say, “I can’t believe he’s so oblivious to what’s happening in the world.”
If someone is not paying attention and misses an important detail, you might say, “You’re completely oblivious, aren’t you?”

7. Uninformed

This term describes someone who lacks knowledge or information about a particular topic or subject. It suggests a lack of awareness or understanding.

For instance, if someone is discussing politics and you have no idea what they’re talking about, you could be considered uninformed.
In a debate, one person might accuse the other of being uninformed and say, “You clearly haven’t done your research.”
If someone is giving incorrect information, you might say, “You’re spreading uninformed opinions.”

8. Unaware

This word describes someone who lacks knowledge or consciousness about something. It suggests a lack of awareness or understanding.

For example, if someone is talking about a popular TV show and you have no idea what they’re referring to, you could be described as unaware.
In a conversation about current events, someone might say, “I can’t believe she’s so unaware of what’s going on in the world.”
If someone is not paying attention and misses an important detail, you might say, “You’re completely unaware, aren’t you?”

9. Zonked

This term refers to someone who is completely out of touch or unaware of what is happening. It suggests a state of confusion or disconnection.

For instance, if someone is discussing a popular trend or meme and you have no idea what they’re talking about, you could be described as zonked.
In a conversation about recent news, someone might say, “I feel so zonked, I haven’t been following any of the headlines.”
If someone is not aware of a significant event or development, you might ask, “Are you zonked? How have you not heard about this?”

10. Confounded

This term describes a state of being puzzled, confused, or perplexed. It suggests a lack of understanding or knowledge about something.

For example, if someone asks you a complex math problem and you have no idea how to solve it, you could be described as confounded.
In a discussion about a difficult concept, someone might say, “I’m completely confounded by this theory.”
If someone is unable to comprehend a situation or figure something out, you might say, “He looks confounded. I don’t think he understands what’s happening.”

11. Baffled

When someone is completely puzzled or unable to understand something.

For example, “I’m baffled by the ending of that movie.”
A person might say, “I’m completely baffled by this math problem.”
In a discussion about a complicated topic, someone might admit, “I’m baffled by all the technical jargon.”

12. Dumbfounded

Being so shocked or surprised that one is unable to speak.

For instance, “I was dumbfounded when I found out I won the lottery.”
Someone might say, “I was dumbfounded by his sudden resignation.”
A person might be dumbfounded by a friend’s unexpected talent, saying, “I had no idea she could sing like that!”

13. Stumped

Being unable to find an answer or solution to a problem or question.

For example, “I’m completely stumped by this crossword puzzle.”
A person might say, “I’m stumped by the riddle. I can’t figure it out.”
In a discussion about a difficult math problem, someone might admit, “I’m stumped. I don’t know how to solve it.”

14. Perplexed

Feeling confused or uncertain about something.

For instance, “I’m perplexed by her sudden change in behavior.”
Someone might say, “I’m perplexed by this strange phenomenon.”
A person might be perplexed by conflicting information, saying, “I’m not sure what to believe. It’s perplexing.”

15. Mystified

Being completely confused or bewildered by something.

For example, “I’m mystified by how this magic trick works.”
A person might say, “I’m mystified by the sudden disappearance of the car.”
In a discussion about a complex scientific concept, someone might admit, “I’m completely mystified. I don’t understand it at all.”

16. Puzzled

To be unsure or perplexed about something.

For example, “I’m puzzled by this riddle. I can’t figure out the answer.”
A person might say, “I’m puzzled by her sudden change in behavior. I don’t understand why she’s acting this way.”
In a discussion about a complex problem, someone might admit, “I’m puzzled by how to solve this issue. I need more information.”

17. Bewildered

To be completely confused or disoriented.

For instance, “I was bewildered by the sudden turn of events. I didn’t know what to do.”
A person might say, “I’m bewildered by this complicated math problem. I can’t make sense of it.”
In a conversation about a confusing situation, someone might admit, “I’m bewildered by all the conflicting information. I don’t know what to believe.”

18. Flummoxed

To be utterly perplexed or bewildered.

For example, “I’m flummoxed by this logic puzzle. I can’t find a solution.”
A person might say, “I’m flummoxed by his behavior. I don’t understand why he’s acting that way.”
In a discussion about a difficult problem, someone might admit, “I’m flummoxed by this math equation. I can’t figure out how to solve it.”

19. Nonplussed

To be surprised or confused to the point of being unsure how to react.

For instance, “I was nonplussed by his sudden outburst. I didn’t know how to respond.”
A person might say, “I’m nonplussed by this unexpected turn of events. I don’t know what to do.”
In a conversation about a confusing situation, someone might admit, “I’m nonplussed by all the conflicting opinions. I don’t know which one to trust.”

20. Dazed

To be in a state of confusion or disorientation.

For example, “I was dazed after the car accident. I didn’t know where I was.”
A person might say, “I’m dazed by all the information overload. I can’t process it all.”
In a discussion about a complex topic, someone might admit, “I’m dazed by all the technical jargon. I don’t understand what they’re talking about.”

21. Fuddled

To be fuddled means to be in a state of confusion or bewilderment. It is often used to describe someone who is unsure or disoriented.

For example, “After a long night of drinking, John woke up feeling fuddled and couldn’t remember what happened.”
In a confusing situation, someone might say, “I’m feeling a bit fuddled. Can you explain that again?”
A person struggling with a complex task might admit, “I’m feeling fuddled trying to understand this math problem.”

22. Discombobulated

To be discombobulated means to be in a state of disorientation or confusion. It is often used to describe someone who feels mentally or emotionally overwhelmed.

For instance, “After a hectic day at work, Sarah felt completely discombobulated.”
In a chaotic situation, someone might say, “I can’t think straight. I’m feeling discombobulated.”
A person experiencing jet lag might complain, “I’m feeling discombobulated from the time difference.”

23. Addled

To be addled means to be in a state of confusion or muddled thinking. It is often used to describe someone who is mentally unclear or unable to think clearly.

For example, “Lack of sleep left him feeling addled and unable to concentrate.”
In a perplexing situation, someone might say, “I’m feeling addled. I can’t make sense of this.”
A person struggling to understand a complex concept might admit, “My brain feels addled trying to grasp this theory.”

24. Muddled

To be muddled means to be in a state of confusion or jumbled thinking. It is often used to describe someone who is mentally disorganized or unable to think clearly.

For instance, “The instructions were so unclear that it left me feeling muddled.”
In a complicated situation, someone might say, “I’m feeling muddled. I don’t know where to start.”
A person overwhelmed with multiple tasks might complain, “My thoughts are muddled. I can’t prioritize anything.”

25. Befuddled

To be befuddled means to be in a state of perplexity or bewilderment. It is often used to describe someone who is confused or unable to understand something.

For example, “The complex math problem left him completely befuddled.”
In a puzzling situation, someone might say, “I’m feeling befuddled. I can’t figure out what’s going on.”
A person trying to comprehend a difficult concept might admit, “I’m befuddled by all the technical jargon.”

26. Stymied

When someone is stymied, they are at a loss for how to proceed or are confused about a situation. This term is often used to describe a feeling of being stuck or unable to find a solution.

For example, “I’ve been working on this puzzle for hours and I’m completely stymied.”
In a conversation about a difficult problem, someone might say, “I’m stymied by this math equation.”
A person discussing a challenging decision might admit, “I’m stymied about which job offer to accept.”

27. Dazed and confused

When someone is dazed and confused, they feel disoriented or bewildered. This term is often used to describe a state of mind where someone is unsure of what is happening or what to do.

For instance, “After the car accident, I was dazed and confused for a few minutes.”
In a discussion about a complex topic, someone might say, “I’m feeling dazed and confused by all this technical jargon.”
A person describing a confusing situation might say, “I walked into the meeting and everyone was talking at once. I was completely dazed and confused.”

28. Flustered

When someone is flustered, they feel agitated or confused. This term is often used to describe a state of mind where someone is overwhelmed or thrown off balance.

For example, “She was so flustered by the unexpected question that she couldn’t think of an answer.”
In a discussion about a high-pressure situation, someone might say, “I tend to get flustered when I have to speak in front of a large audience.”
A person describing a chaotic event might say, “The sudden change in plans left me feeling flustered and unsure of what to do.”

29. At a loss

When someone is at a loss, they are without a solution or understanding. This term is often used to describe a feeling of being unable to find an answer or figure something out.

For instance, “I’ve tried everything, but I’m still at a loss for how to fix the problem.”
In a discussion about a difficult decision, someone might say, “I’m at a loss about which path to choose.”
A person describing a confusing situation might admit, “I’m completely at a loss as to why she reacted that way.”

30. Clammed up

When someone clams up, they become silent or refuse to speak. This term is often used to describe a person who stops talking or becomes uncommunicative, especially in a tense or uncomfortable situation.

For example, “He clammed up when I asked him about his ex-girlfriend.”
In a discussion about a witness who won’t provide information, someone might say, “He clammed up as soon as the police started asking questions.”
A person describing a shy friend might say, “She tends to clam up in social situations and doesn’t say much.”

31. Dumbstruck

When someone is so surprised or shocked that they are unable to speak or react. It is a state of being rendered speechless due to astonishment or disbelief.

For example, “I was dumbstruck when I found out I won the lottery.”
A person might say, “I was completely dumbstruck by the news of his sudden death.”
Another might express, “His performance was so incredible that it left me dumbstruck.”

32. Shell-shocked

Originally used to describe the psychological impact of being in the trenches during World War I, it now refers to a state of extreme shock or bewilderment. It describes feeling disoriented, overwhelmed, or emotionally numb.

For instance, “She was shell-shocked after witnessing a car accident.”
A person might say, “The sudden loss of her job left her feeling shell-shocked and unsure of what to do next.”
Another might express, “I was shell-shocked when I found out about the betrayal.”

33. Stunned

When someone is so surprised or shocked that they are temporarily unable to react or think clearly. It describes a state of being completely taken aback or astonished.

For example, “I was stunned when I saw the amazing view from the top of the mountain.”
A person might say, “I was absolutely stunned by the news of their engagement.”
Another might express, “The unexpected turn of events left me stunned and unsure of how to proceed.”

34. Fazed

When someone is not affected or disturbed by something. It means to be unaffected or unbothered by a situation or event.

For instance, “He didn’t seem fazed by the criticism of his work.”
A person might say, “No matter what happens, I won’t let it faze me.”
Another might express, “She remained calm and composed, not allowing the chaos around her to faze her.”

35. Gobsmacked

When someone is utterly astonished or shocked. It describes a state of being completely taken by surprise or caught off guard.

For example, “I was gobsmacked when I walked into the surprise party.”
A person might say, “His incredible talent left me gobsmacked.”
Another might express, “I was gobsmacked by the news that she had won the award.”

36. Bamboozled

This term refers to feeling perplexed or tricked by someone or something. It can be used to describe a situation where someone is fooled or misled.

For example, “I was completely bamboozled by the magician’s tricks.”
A person might say, “I feel bamboozled by this complicated math problem.”
Another might exclaim, “I can’t believe he bamboozled me into buying that useless product.”

37. Flabbergasted

When someone is flabbergasted, they are taken aback or astonished by something unexpected. It is a stronger version of being surprised or shocked.

For instance, “I was flabbergasted when she announced her resignation.”
A person might say, “I am flabbergasted by the amount of support I received.”
Another might exclaim, “I am flabbergasted that he won the competition.”

38. Astounded

To be astounded means to be amazed or astonished by something. It implies a feeling of great surprise or wonder.

For example, “I was astounded by the beauty of the sunset.”
A person might say, “I am astounded by the talent of this young artist.”
Another might exclaim, “I am astounded by the generosity of strangers.”

39. Aghast

When someone is aghast, they are filled with horror or shock. It is a strong reaction to something disturbing or appalling.

For instance, “She was aghast at the sight of the accident.”
A person might say, “I am aghast at the amount of waste in our society.”
Another might exclaim, “I was aghast when I heard the news.”

40. Taken aback

To be taken aback means to be surprised or shocked by something unexpected. It implies being caught off guard or momentarily speechless.

For example, “I was taken aback by his sudden outburst.”
A person might say, “I was taken aback by the unexpected turn of events.”
Another might exclaim, “I was taken aback when she confessed her feelings.”

41. Blank

This term is used to describe a lack of knowledge or information about something. It can also refer to a state of confusion or uncertainty.

For example, if someone asks you a question you don’t know the answer to, you might say, “Sorry, I’m drawing a blank.”
In a meeting, if someone asks for your input and you have nothing to contribute, you might say, “I’ve got nothing, I’m blanking on this.”
When trying to remember a name or a detail and your mind is empty, you might say, “It’s on the tip of my tongue, but I’m going blank.”

42. Zilch

This slang term is used to express the absence or lack of something. It is often used to indicate a complete lack of knowledge or understanding.

For instance, if someone asks if you know anything about a particular topic and you have no information, you might say, “I know zilch about that.”
When someone asks if you have any plans for the weekend and you have no plans at all, you might respond, “Zilch, I’ve got no plans.”
If someone asks if you have any experience with a certain skill and you have none, you might say, “I’ve got zilch experience with that.”

43. Nada

This term is used to indicate a complete lack of something. It is often used to express a lack of knowledge or understanding.

For example, if someone asks if you have any information on a certain topic and you have none, you might respond, “Sorry, nada.”
When someone asks if you have any food left and you have none, you might say, “Nada, it’s all gone.”
If someone asks if you’ve seen a particular movie and you haven’t, you might say, “I’ve seen nada of that.”

44. Fuzzy

This term is used to describe a state of confusion or uncertainty. It can also refer to something that is not clear or easily understood.

For instance, if someone asks you a question and you’re not sure of the answer, you might say, “I’m a bit fuzzy on that.”
When trying to remember a detail and your memory is unclear, you might say, “My memory is a bit fuzzy on the specifics.”
If someone explains a complex concept to you and you don’t fully understand it, you might say, “I’m still a bit fuzzy on the details.”

45. Hazy

This term is used to describe something that is not clear or easily understood. It can also refer to a state of confusion or uncertainty.

For example, if someone asks you to explain a concept and you’re not sure how to explain it clearly, you might say, “It’s a bit hazy for me.”
When recalling a memory and the details are not clear, you might say, “The details are a bit hazy, but I remember the general idea.”
If someone asks you about your plans for the future and you’re uncertain, you might say, “I’m still in a hazy state, trying to figure it out.”

46. Foggy

When someone is feeling foggy, they are unsure or confused about a particular topic or situation.

For example, “I’m feeling a bit foggy about the instructions for this new software.”
A person might say, “I had a foggy memory of that event, but now it’s starting to come back to me.”
Another situation might be, “I’m feeling a bit foggy about my plans for the weekend, I can’t decide what to do.”

47. Drawing a blank

When someone is drawing a blank, they are unable to remember or think of something, often a piece of information or a word.

For instance, “I was asked for the capital of France, but I completely drew a blank.”
A person might say, “I’m trying to remember her name, but I’m drawing a blank right now.”
Another situation might be, “I was asked to solve the math problem, but I’m drawing a blank.”

48. Ignoramus

An ignoramus is a slang term used to describe someone who is ignorant or uninformed about a particular topic or in general.

For example, “He’s such an ignoramus when it comes to politics.”
A person might say, “Don’t listen to him, he’s just an ignoramus.”
Another situation might be, “She acted like an ignoramus during the meeting, not knowing any of the important details.”

49. Blank stare

A blank stare is a facial expression that shows confusion or a lack of understanding about something.

For instance, “When I asked him about the project, he just gave me a blank stare.”
A person might say, “I had no idea what she was talking about, so I just gave her a blank stare.”
Another situation might be, “When I mentioned the new policy, my coworker gave me a blank stare as if he had never heard of it.”

50. Left in the dark

When someone is left in the dark, they are not informed or unaware of something that others know about.

For example, “I was left in the dark about the team’s decision, nobody told me.”
A person might say, “Don’t leave me in the dark, I want to be included in the conversation.”
Another situation might be, “The employees were left in the dark about the company’s financial troubles until the last minute.”

51. None the wiser

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone remains ignorant or oblivious to a particular fact or information.

For example, “Even after reading the article, I’m still none the wiser about how the new software works.”
In a conversation about a complex topic, someone might say, “I listened to the lecture, but I’m afraid I’m none the wiser.”
A person discussing a confusing situation might say, “I tried to follow the instructions, but I’m none the wiser on how to fix my computer.”