in a general sense, is opposed to order; in a perturbation whereof, confusion consists: e.g. when things prior in nature do not precede; or posterior do not follow, &c.

In a logical sense, confusion is opposed to distinctness, or perplexity; and may happen, either in words, as when misconceived or misapplied; or in ideas, as when the idea of any thing presents something along with it, which does not properly belong to that thing. See IDEA, and NOTION.

In a physical sense, confusion is a sort of union or mixture by mere contiguity.—Such is that between fluids of contrary nature, as oil and vinegar, &c.

in Scots law, is a method of suspending and extinguishing obligations. See LAW, Part III. N° clxxvi. 8.