Synonyms of mystery

mystery

noun

ˈmi-st(ə-)rē 

as in enigma

something hard to understand or explain

why my sister married that guy is still a mystery to my parents

Synonyms & Similar Words

• enigma
• puzzle
• riddle
• secret
• problem
• conundrum
• matter
• challenge
• why
• mystification
• puzzlement
• closed book
• head-scratcher
• perplexity
• case
• trouble
• poser
• brainteaser
• stumper
• knot

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun mystery differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of mystery are enigma, problem, puzzle, and riddle. While all these words mean "something which baffles or perplexes," mystery applies to what cannot be fully understood by reason or less strictly to whatever resists or defies explanation.

the mystery of the stone monoliths

Where would enigma be a reasonable alternative to mystery?

While the synonyms enigma and mystery are close in meaning, enigma applies to utterance or behavior that is very difficult to interpret.

his suicide remains an enigma

When might problem be a better fit than mystery?

The words problem and mystery can be used in similar contexts, but problem applies to a question or difficulty calling for a solution or causing concern.

problems created by high technology

When is puzzle a more appropriate choice than mystery?

The synonyms puzzle and mystery are sometimes interchangeable, but puzzle applies to an enigma or problem that challenges ingenuity for its solution.

the thief's motives were a puzzle for the police

When is it sensible to use riddle instead of mystery?

Although the words riddle and mystery have much in common, riddle suggests an enigma or problem involving paradox or apparent contradiction.

the riddle of the reclusive pop star

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of mystery

Unraveling the mysteries of low-intervention and rare natural wines — created by winemakers with as little human or chemical intervention as possible — is much easier when your guide has time for you. —Miami Herald, 18 June 2026

Several astrophysical mysteries sit in the radio band of wavelengths. —Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 18 June 2026

Before the show launches its sixth season later this year, Hoffman unpacked a scene in the season five opener that sets up the surprising mystery the podcasters scurry to solve. —Trey Williams, HollywoodReporter, 18 June 2026

The benefits of this strategy include growing leaders on purpose, reducing hiring risk and costs, boosting retention, and helping employees feel seen because advancement is a process, not a mystery. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026