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 perspicuity: and may happen either in words, as when miscontrived 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. For the illustration of this, see Law Index.